Jefferson City News

Two school districts and nine individual schools in Missouri have been awarded the prestigious 2024 Missouri Purple Star designation by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Among the recipients are Crocker R-II School District, Warren Co. R-III School District, and various schools within these districts.

Commissioner of Education Margie Vandeven expressed the significance of the program, stating, "This program is just one way to reiterate our state’s commitment to our service members." Vandeven highlighted the importance of supporting service members and their families within the local community, particularly military children, to ensure their success in the future.

The 2024 Purple Star designees will be honored at the Month of the Military Child Kickoff event on April 2, 2024, at the Capitol Rotunda. This event is organized by the Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission and DESE to celebrate the dedication of these schools and districts to serving military-connected students and families.

The Purple Star School designation is a recognition of the commitment shown by local education agencies (LEAs) towards military personnel, including active duty, National Guard or Reserve members, and veterans. Recipients of this designation will receive a special Purple Star recognition to display on their premises and websites.

For those interested in learning more about the criteria for obtaining the Purple Star designation, DESE has provided detailed information on their Missouri Purple Star Schools webpage.