Fourth Class of Purple Star Award Recipients Announced

Charleston, W.Va. - The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) and Common Ground Partnership announced its fourth class of West Virginia schools receiving the Purple Star Award.

Purple Star Award recipients are schools and districts that have committed to providing dedicated support and services to students of military families. The Purple Star Award recognizes schools making a focused commitment to meet the needs of military-connected children by identifying a trained military family point of contact, linking to resources on their homepage, completing a minimum of two military support activities and submitting a localized plan of action. Their commitment provides a foundation for students of military families to develop productive, academic lives and to be a part of a supportive community.

This year, 27 schools have received the Purple Star Award bringing the total to 297 in West Virginia. Clay and Lincoln counties have also earned 100% participation this year. Currently, 16 total districts are Purple Star Districts. The WVDE provides all Purple Star Award schools and districts with certificates and banners to recognize their commitment.

"Purple Star recipients recognize the needs of our students and have valiantly worked to address them. They know how vital it is to provide our children with the support they need to find success," said State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt. "The Common Ground Partnership offers numerous opportunities and resources for all students to achieve."

The Common Ground Partnership consists of military, government and community-based organizations focused on the success of all students and promoting assistance for military-connected families in public schools. Students with family members in the military may experience unique circumstances and stressors due to the unpredictable nature of military deployments. Schools with caring staff members make a difference for those students during times when soldiers are called to relocate. Proactive communication between schools and families can also help avoid social-emotional problems and negative behaviors. The Common Ground Partnership recognizes the importance of schools supporting students and ensuring that they are aware of the exceptional resources available to receive a high-quality education.

To learn more about the Common Ground Partnership or to view a full list of Purple Star Award recipients, please visit the Common Ground website.

For media inquiries, contact Christy Day at the West Virginia Department of Education Office of Communications at 304-558-2699 or [email protected].