On June 14, 2023, the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) announced the launch of the Purple Star School Program to support military-connected children as they relocate to new schools due to a parent’s change in duty station. The Purple Star School designation is given to schools or local education agencies for their commitment to active-duty military families and students.

The Purple Star School program was passed into law in July 2022. The program encourages schools to identify and support the children of service members on active duty, and in the National Guard and Reserves, as they transition to a new school. Schools can receive the Purple Star Award from PDE if they meet specific criteria demonstrating their commitment to students and families connected to our nation’s military.

To learn more and apply for the Purple Star School designation, schools can visit PDE’s website. The program is open to public and non-public schools in Pennsylvania.

The Purple Star School Program is a nationwide initiative. Pennsylvania now joins 37 other states that offer this designation.

For more information on the Pennsylvania Department of Education, please visit PDE’s website.