Published on January 7, 2025
Warwick School District is proud to hold the Purple Star Schools designation. This designation signifies the commitment we have made to be inclusive to all military-connected students and to aid in the success of each of these students.
What is a Purple Star School?
The Purple Star Schools program recognizes schools for their dedication to supporting military-connected students and their families as they transition to new schools due to a parent’s change in duty station. This designation highlights a commitment to meeting the unique needs of active-duty military families.
Why are Purple Star Schools important?
Eighty percent of military-connected children in the U.S. attend public schools, frequently transitioning due to a parent’s Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders. With over 1.2 million active-duty military-connected children enrolled in schools domestically and abroad, these transitions have a significant impact. However, only nine states currently offer Purple Star School programs, which are designed to support these students and families.
Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) advocates for all states to adopt Purple Star School programs to demonstrate their commitment to military families. These programs ensure schools are equipped to help military-connected children adjust academically, socially, and emotionally while meeting obligations under the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children. Additionally, Purple Star certification can influence military basing decisions, supporting state economies by retaining military installations and attracting military families.
How do Purple Star School programs meet state obligations?
All 50 states and the District of Columbia have signed the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, ensuring consistent treatment for military-connected children transitioning between schools. The Compact guarantees immediate enrollment, appropriate academic placement, and on-time graduation for these students. Since the Compact carries the weight of statutory law, states are committed to its implementation.
While the Purple Star School program is not directly affiliated with the Compact, many states have adopted it as a proactive way to support military families. These programs help address school transition challenges in a consistent and timely manner, fostering inclusive and supportive environments for all students. Purple Star Schools also benefit communities by attracting military families who contribute to the local economy and often seek out these schools when relocating.
What does this mean for Warwick School District?
Warwick School District strives to support all students in our care.
The Warwick School Board approved the Resolution for the Support of Military Children and Families at a meeting in October.
Other Relevant Board Policies
254 - Educational Opportunity for Military Children.
In relation to being a Purple Star School, we aim to provide the following support to military families:
Building Connections:
Develop relationships with students and families through school tours, staff introductions, and meetings.
Assign peer mentors or buddies and connect families with resources and opportunities within the school.
Academic Support:
Review records for grade placement and credit transfer with input from school counselors and administrators.
Offer individualized counseling, program placement, and access to student services as needed.
Community Engagement:
Provide information about school programs, events, and resources, such as PTO, transportation, clubs, and volunteering.
Celebrate military families through events like Veterans Day activities and the Month of the Military Child.
Special Programs:
Utilize various grade-level groups for student transitions and offer orientation, peer mentorship, and recognition at graduation.
Support military career pathways through ASVAB testing, recruiter activities, and partnerships with military organizations.
Professional Development:
Train staff in trauma-informed practices, military family enrollment, and social-emotional learning.
Partner with Military Child Education Coalition and MIC3 for specialized webinars and resources.
Recognition and Events:
Host assemblies, presentations, and activities highlighting military families and veterans.
Plan schoolwide recognition events for students and families in active service.
Ongoing Improvements:
Continuously review feedback from families and staff to enhance support and programming.