WAYNE COUNTY, N.C. — Schools across Wayne County are being recognized for their commitment to supporting military-connected students, as part of North Carolina’s growing Purple Star Award initiative.
During a ceremony held April 24, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction honored hundreds of schools statewide for going above and beyond to serve military families. Among those recognized were Wayne County Public Schools, Wayne Preparatory Academy, and Wayne STEM Academy, all of which earned designation as Purple Star Schools.
The Purple Star Award highlights schools that demonstrate a strong commitment to students from military families, a significant population across North Carolina. The program, launched in the 2019–20 school year, reflects the state’s long-standing ties to the armed forces and its efforts to ensure military families feel supported both in and out of the classroom.
In addition to school recognitions, local leadership was also celebrated. Todd Walker, President and CEO of the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce and a retired U.S. Air Force colonel, was recognized for his dedication to supporting military families and championing the Purple Star Program in the community.
Statewide, the program continues to expand. For the 2025–26 school year, 598 schools — including 15 charter schools — received Purple Star recognition, marking an increase of 143 schools compared to the previous year. A total of 34 school districts were represented, with 145 schools earning the designation for the first time.
The ceremony featured remarks from Maurice “Mo” Green, Jocelyn Mitnaul Mallette, and Timothy Drieselein, who emphasized the importance of supporting military families and recognizing schools that lead the way.
North Carolina remains home to a large population of active-duty service members, National Guard, reserves, and veterans. Programs like the Purple Star Award continue to strengthen the connection between schools and the military community, ensuring students receive the support they need to succeed.
