Nine Fairbanks-area schools received Alaska’s Purple Star School recognition for improving educational experiences for students from military families.
The state launched the program in 2022 to highlight schools’ “unwavering commitment to supporting military-connected students and their families.” Overall, 13 states received the designation this year.
The Fairbanks-area schools include Anderson-Crawford, Arctic Light, Chinook Montessori Charter, Discovery Peak Charter, Lathrop High, North Pole High, West Valley High, North Pole Middle and Tanana Middle.
“We are incredibly proud of the schools in our district that have earned the Purple Star designation,” Superintendent Luke Meinert said in a statement. “This award reflects their unwavering dedication to providing a supportive environment for military-connected students, who often face unique challenges due to frequent relocations.”
According to the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District, 2,476 students come from military families.
The Purple Star School recognition is announced on a two-year cycle, and schools can reapply after their cycle ends.
Since the Purple Star School program’s inception, Fairbanks schools have consistently been on the list. Most of the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District schools on the list were initially recognized in the inaugural 2022 period.
It’s Chinook Charter School’s first time to receive the Purple Star School designation.
Other Alaska schools recognized are Anchorage School District’s Gruening Middle School, Chugiak High and Eagle River High schools. Kodiak’s Peterson Elementary, located adjacent to Coast Guard Base Kodiak, was also recognized.
“The Purple Star School award is a testament of dedication to fostering a welcoming and supportive educational environment for military children,” said Donald Enoch Jr., the Military Interstate Children’s Compact commissioner. “By prioritizing their academic success and emotional well-being, you have exemplified the values of resilience, inclusivity, and excellence in education.”
To qualify for the recognition, schools must have a web page with resources for military families, a staff member who helps these families, and a student group to welcome new military students.
In addition, they must do at least one activity to support or honor military families a year.
“This recognition acknowledges the unique challenges faced by military families, such as frequent relocations, and highlights the school’s efforts to provide a supportive and understanding environment for these students,” the program stated.
