The Colorado Department of Education has opened the application process for the new Purple Star Schools Program, which recognizes Colorado schools that serve and support military-connected students and families.
“Colorado is home to many military families, and it’s our responsibility to ensure that their children feel welcomed, supported, and prepared for success in our schools,” said Susana Córdova, Colorado’s education commissioner. “The Purple Star Schools Program is a vital way for us to recognize schools that go above and beyond to address the challenges these students face.”
The Purple Star Schools Program, created through House Bill 24-1076, honors schools’ efforts to help military families navigate the unique academic and social-emotional challenges that military-connected students face, such as frequent relocations, adapting to new schools, and parental deployments.
The designation symbolizes a school’s commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for military-connected students. It provides incoming parents with an indication that the school has resources to support their child’s social and emotional well-being and academic success.
The application is open through Wednesday, December 18, and awards will be announced in March 2025. Schools selected for this recognition will receive a certificate of designation valid for three years and participate in a ceremony during the first week of April 2025.
Purple Star eligibility requirements for schools include having a designated staff contact for military families, providing programs to help military-connected students adjust to their new schools and training staff on the needs of military-connected families. Schools and districts interested in applying can visit the department’s Purple Star Schools webpage for more information about the application process.