Harrison High School Earns Renewal of Purple Star Designation
Interim State Superintendent of Public Instruction Stephanie Siddens announced that William Henry Harrison High School has earned renewal of its designation as a Purple Star school. The award recognizes a school’s commitment to serving and supporting students and families connected to the United States Armed Forces and Ohio National Guard. Harrison is one of 431 active Purple Star schools that dedicate time and support to students in military families.
“Purple Star schools are another example of Ohio’s proud tradition of honoring our service men and women,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “As a community, these schools are embracing our military-connected students and their families, providing them with support and resources to meet those families’ unique needs.”
"Congratulations to all of the schools joining the growing list of those across the state who are leaning forward in taking care of Ohio's military youth," said Maj. Gen. John C. Harris Jr., Ohio adjutant general and commander of the Ohio National Guard. “Supporting our children in the classroom is one of the most important things a school can do to give back to their local military members who have sworn an oath to protect and defend the nation's families."
To meet the requirements for the Purple Star Award, schools must designate a liaison between military-connected students and their families and the school. The liaison works with teachers to support the military-connected students in school and helps to ensure military families and students have access to necessary considerations and resources in the community.
“The Purple Star Award recognizes schools that honor and support the unique needs of military-connected youth and their families,” said Siddens. “I applaud these schools and their extraordinary commitment to ensuring students’ success through academic and wraparound supports.”
The announcement of Purple Star Class of 2022 is part of Ohio’s participation in the national celebration of the Month of the Military Child. April was first designated as the Month of the Military Child by the United States Department of Defense in 1986 to increase public knowledge and understanding of the issues surrounding children who have a parent in the military.
The Purple Star Advisory Board helps determine school eligibility requirements. A Purple Star School receives the designation for three years, after which the school can apply for renewal of the designation. Harrison High School was first bestowed with the honor in 2020, and the renewal carries through to 2025.