Raleigh, N.C. — In a strong show of support for military-connected students and their families, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) has recognized 453 schools across the state with the prestigious Purple Star Award Designation for the 2024–25 school year. This year’s honorees include 12 charter schools and represent 31 school districts, with 65 schools receiving the award for the first time.
Now in its fifth year, the Purple Star Award initiative honors schools that demonstrate a commitment to supporting students from military families through specialized programs, resources, and staff training.
“Ensuring that every North Carolina public school student has the appropriate support is paramount to achieving academic excellence in our schools,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Maurice “Mo” Green. “I applaud the hundreds of schools across the state who were awarded Purple Stars today. Their dedication to their students, their families, and their communities does not go unnoticed.”
A formal ceremony held earlier today celebrated this year’s recipients, featuring remarks from Superintendent Green and Brigadier General Charles W. Morrison, Assistant Adjutant General – Maneuver, NC National Guard. Schools that have received the award for five or more consecutive years were also recognized with special honors. Harnett County Schools, Alpha Academy, and Anderson Creek Academy received legacy plaques for earning the award six years in a row, while Northeast Academy of Aerospace & Advanced Technology (NEAAAT) was awarded a legacy trophy for five consecutive years of recognition.
Additionally, 15 school districts earned the State Superintendent’s Purple Star District Award, meaning every school in those districts qualified for the Purple Star designation. These districts include:
- Carteret County Schools
- Craven County Schools
- Cumberland County Schools
- Currituck County Schools
- Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools
- Harnett County Schools
- Hoke County Schools
- Jones County Schools
- Moore County Schools
- Onslow County Schools
- Pender County Schools
- Polk County Schools
- Scotland County Schools
- Wayne County Public Schools
- Whiteville City Schools
To earn the Purple Star, schools must designate a staff member to serve as a point of contact for military families, provide professional development related to military students, host transition programs, and maintain online resources for military-connected families. Schools also completed optional activities such as hosting events for Month of the Military Child, Veteran’s Day, or Purple-Up! For Military Kids!
Launched in 2019, the Purple Star Award reflects North Carolina’s deep-rooted connection to the military and ongoing commitment to supporting the unique needs of students with military backgrounds.
For more information and a full list of 2024–25 Purple Star Award recipients, visit www.dpi.nc.gov.
