AUSTIN — Two Boerne ISD elementary schools are among a list of 98 Texas public schools being awarded the Purple Star Campus designation, awarded to schools committed to providing comprehensive support for students from military families.
Both Curington and Fair Oaks Ranch elementaries received the Purple Star designation, bringing the total across Texas to 640.
“Texas is home to nearly 200,000 military-connected students attending public schools across our state,” Gov. Greg Abbott said of Thursday’s notification.
“The Purple Star Campus Designation program encourages Texas public schools to expand resources and tools available on their campuses to meet the unique educational needs of military-connected students and their families,” Abbott said. “Texas will continue to support the families of the brave men and women who fought for our country.”
Boerne ISD Superintendent Dr. Kristin Craft said, “Boerne is a destination for many families, and we’re proud that it’s become a home for current and retired military as they look for a place to put down roots.
“Making sure our military- connected families know how valued they are is something we celebrate across the district, and I consider it just another component of the Boerne Advantage,” Craft said.
In 2019, Abbott signed Senate Bill 1557 into law, establishing the Purple Star Campus Designation, which is awarded to schools that demonstrate a significant commitment to providing comprehensive support for students from military families.
These campuses must meet rigorous criteria, including designating a campus-based military liaison, creating and maintaining an easily accessible campus webpage that includes required information for military-connected families, instituting a campus transition program for military- connected students, and supporting a military family initiative.
“By adding 98 new Purple Star campuses this year, Texas continues to strengthen its commitment to military-connected students and their families,” said Mike Morath, Texas Education Commissioner. “With 640 schools now carrying this designation, we are ensuring that military children receive the care, stability, and support they deserve, no matter where their service takes them.”
All Texas public school campuses are eligible to receive a Purple Star Designation, regardless of the size of the military-connected student population. Applications are accepted annually, with the designation lasting two years.
“We are grateful for the service of these brave men and women and their families and are honored to have them in our community and schools,” Craft said.
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