Westerville South High School has received the Purple Star designation for its commitment to serving military-connected students and their families, officials with the Ohio Department of Education announced this week.
Westerville South joins Westerville Central and Westerville North in receiving the honor, which were awarded the designation in 2019 and 2018, respectively.
“We want to honor the important sacrifices Ohio’s military families make while recognizing the school communities that support them,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “Purple Star Schools are intentional in their efforts to bolster our service members and their families. Their commitment to supporting those who serve provides a great model for students, showing them how Ohioans work together and care for one another.”
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Paolo DeMaria announced 37 Purple Star schools this year. The Purple Star school designation recognizes these schools’ commitments to serving students and families connected to the United States armed forces. The Purple Star Advisory Board, formed by the Ohio departments of Education, Higher Education, Veterans Services and Adjutant General, helps decide eligibility.
About 34,000 Ohio students, including the children of active duty, reserve and Ohio National Guard families, have one or more parents serving in the military. Some of these students will attend six to nine different schools between kindergarten and grade 12. Military-connected children also can be affected by a parent’s deployment. Schools can help students and families face these issues by connecting them with the resources they need.