Military families deploying to Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base will now have an easier experience finding inclusive education for their child thanks to the newly adopted Purple Star School Program through the state of Alabama.
“The Purple Star Schools Program shows Alabama’s continued support to military communities across the state,” said Lt. Gen. James Hecker, Air University commander and president. “We are thankful to the Military Stability Commission, who championed this K-12 recognition program to help military parents find supportive schools in the area and ease the transition for military-connected children.”
Ohio was the first state to establish the program in 2017. Since then, 12 other states have adopted similar programs, and 11 states have pending legislation.
Purple Star Schools help students through mentoring and inclusion programs to help students acclimate to a new school and environment. The program also provides teachers and staff professional development on the educational and social/emotional challenges that military-connected students experience.
“I see a Purple Star School as one that welcomes my kids with open arms. A school that knows how to help them, and us, navigate the complicated issues we face when PCS’ing,” said Kristen Morgan, member of a K-12 education working group in the state of Alabama.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Michael Carden
