This past week, Wayne County Public Schools learned that all 32 of its schools earned the Purple Star Award designation from the North Carolina Department of Instruction for their demonstrated military-friendly practices and a commitment to military students and families. By having 100% of its schools holding the Purple Star designation, WCPS now has the distinction of being a Purple Star District.

This is the second year WCPS had schools recognized with the Purple Star Award. Last year, 20 schools received the Purple Star Award designation. WCPS administrators attribute its success to the strong relationship the district has with Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, and the school supports that are in place to help address the unique challenges military connected students and families face.

“This is a tremendous honor for our schools and our district,” states Dr. David Lewis, WCPS interim superintendent. “Having all of our schools and the district achieve these award designations affirms our district’s commitment to ensuring military connected students have a network of support while they are enrolled in our schools. We congratulate each school for its achievement and for the ongoing efforts in place to support military connected students during times of transition and change.”

NCDPI will recognize all Purple Star Award schools and districts at a virtual awards program in April. Purple Star Schools are those that completed several required activities, plus an optional activity, aimed at ensuring strong support for students of military families.