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Fairfax County Public Schools is working to have all of its more than 200 schools earn Purple Star recognition by the 2026-27 school year, expanding support for the division’s more than 12,000 military-connected students.
Virginia awards Purple Star Division status only when every school in a district has earned or maintained a Purple Star Designation. The program recognizes schools that excel at welcoming and supporting students whose families are connected to the military.
“When a family member serves in the military, everyone in the family serves,” Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid said.
FCPS currently has 96 Purple Star Schools. Approximately 90 schools are expected to earn or renew the designation this year, bringing the division close to 70% participation.
The FCPS Office of Family and School Partnerships is helping schools that are new to the application process and military culture as the division pursues recognition across all of its campuses.
Reid is encouraging every principal to participate, regardless of how many military-connected students attend a school. She said the designation promotes an inclusive, welcoming environment that benefits all students and families while celebrating the division’s diversity.
Creating schools where students feel safe, supported and included is also part of Goal 2 in the FCPS 2023-30 Strategic Plan.