When it comes to supporting and addressing the needs of students whose parents or guardians serve in the United States Armed Forces, Anne Arundel County Public Schools is once again at the forefront.
A year after three schools were designated Purple Star Schools, two more – Manor View Elementary School and Pershing Hill Elementary School – have earned the honor, the Maryland State Department of Education announced today.
The Purple Star Schools Program was begun last year by MSDE to honor schools that recognize and support the unique needs of military dependents. MacArthur Middle School, Meade High School, and West Meade Early Education Center earned awards in 2024.
“Students whose families serve our nation in the military have a distinct set of needs and require differentiated support to be able to Belong, Grow, and Succeed,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mark Bedell said. “I continue to be incredibly proud of the ways in which our schools – particularly in the Meade cluster – support these students.
The Maryland General Assembly approved the Purple Star Schools Program in 2022, allowing the state to join 37 others across the nation. The Maryland State Board of Education first allowed schools to apply for awards last September.
“Our Purple Star Schools are shining examples of compassion in action,” Dr. Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools, said in the announcement of this year’s winners. “These school communities open their hearts to military-connected students and families, offering not just support, but a true sense of belonging. We celebrate their commitment and the difference they make every single day.”
Other honorees in the 2025 class can be found here.