***NEWS RELEASE***
The Maryland State Department of Education announced the inaugural group of eight Purple Star Schools recognizing their strong services and support for students from military families. We are proud to announce that both Kent Island High School (KIHS) and Queen Anne’s County High School (QACHS) have received this designation.
Of this designation, QACPS Superintendent Dr. Patty Saelens says, “The average military family moves every 1-3 years and can experience 6-9 different schools through their K-12 education. I am incredibly proud of our staff members at both of our high schools for working hard each day to ensure the success of our students in military families.”
“Students whose family members serve in the armed forces have unique needs,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright, Interim State Superintendent of Schools. “School communities that go above and beyond to address their needs and create a welcoming environment deserve this recognition. We salute our first Purple Star Schools and look forward to bringing others into the fold.”
Criteria for the Purple Star Schools designation includes identifying a staff member as the point of contact for newly-enrolled military connected students and their families; providing easily accessible digital resources and a student-led program to help ease the transition; and offering appropriate staff training and professional development.
KIHS & QACHS will maintain the Purple Star Schools designation through the 2024-25 academic year. Maryland, which implemented the Purple Star Schools Program in 2023, joined 37 other states in this nationwide initiative.
Download a PDF copy of the news release here.