Key Issue Header

HOME

Purple Star Schools Program

EXPLORE OTHER PRIORITIES

Key Message

Military children experience many challenges as they relocate to new schools due to a parent’s change in duty station. By establishing statewide Purple Star Schools programs, states can encourage local education agencies to implement practices that assist military children with transitions/deployments and also recognize military service and civic responsibility.

Analysis

Military-connected children often experience difficulties as a result of parents being on deployment or constantly on the move. As a result, issues related to school transition have become a top priority for families and some schools. Challenges being addressed include gaps and overlaps in curriculum, differing graduation requirements and course-place disruption. These students also face social and emotional challenges such as leaving supportive friends and activities to start over at a new school.

Insights

The average military-connected child will attend six to nine schools during their K-12 education experience. With more than 1.1 million such students attending schools, issues surrounding school transition have become a top priority for families and some schools.

Other Content

State Policymakers

If you are a state policymaker, request more information.