(COLORADO) — Schools from eight school districts and the Charter School Institute have been awarded the first-ever Purple Star School designation.
On Thursday, April 10, 27 schools were recognized for supporting the unique educational and social-emotional needs of military-connected children. The Purple Star School program, a state-level initiative, acknowledges schools that go above and beyond to provide a supportive and welcoming environment for students whose families serve in the military.
“Colorado is the proud home to a strong military and veteran community, and it’s only appropriate that our schools are recognized for the work they do to support military families and their children,” said Governor Jared Polis. “I’m excited to celebrate the schools that are leading this work and setting an example for the rest of the state.”
Among the 27 schools, there were several recognized from Colorado Springs, including Fountain-Fort Carson School District, which was deemed the first district in Colorado to earn the status.
“This recognition is a testament to the unwavering commitment of FFC8 staff and schools
in providing essential support for military-connected students,” said Fountain-Fort Carson School District Superintendent Dr. Keith Owen. “As a district with approximately 70% military-connected students, we take great pride in creating an environment where students and families feel supported, embraced, and empowered to succeed.”
Other schools recognized include:
Academy School District 20
Douglass Valley Elementary School, Eagleview Middle School, and Ranch Creek Elementary School
Aurora Public Schools
Edna and John Mosley P-8 School
Colorado Springs School District 11
Jenkins Middle School, James Irwin Elementary School – Howard, McAuliffe Elementary School
Charter School Institute
Colorado Military Academy
District 49
Bennett Ranch Elementary School, Falcon Middle School
Ellicott School District 22
Ellicott Elementary School
Harrison School District 2
James Irwin Charter Middle School, James Irwin Elementary School- Astrozon
Widefield School District 3
Grand Mountain School, Widefield High School
To earn the Purple Star designation, schools must demonstrate several key criteria, including a designated staff liaison, military-specific resources, staff training, and community engagement with military families and the community.
“Military families and their children make extraordinary sacrifices in service to our country. For military-connected students, frequent moves and long separations from loved ones can present unique challenges. Our Purple Star Schools go above and beyond to create welcoming, supportive environments where every student feels seen, supported, and a true sense of belonging—no matter where their family is stationed,” said Commissioner Susana Cordova.
Last spring, Polis signed into law House Bill 24-1076, which created the Purple Star Program to recognize schools that help military-connected students navigate academic and socio-emotional challenges that come with frequent relocations, deployments, and adjusting to a new community.
