NANKIN — Mapleton Elementary recently became one of 153 schools across Ohio to earn the Purple Star designation for the first time.
Gov. Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Education and Workforce Director Stephen Dackin announced on April 20 that 304 schools statewide earned the Purple Star designation as part of the Class of 2026.
The designation is an honor given to schools that demonstrate a significant commitment to serving students and families connected to the nation’s armed forces, according to the release.
“When military families are maybe looking for schools, we’ll show up as one of those schools that acknowledges those families,” Mapleton Elementary Principal Cassie Swanson said April 13 at the district’s most recent board meeting.
This year’s class includes 153 schools earning the Purple Star designation for the first time. There are 151 schools earning renewals for continued dedication to Ohio’s military families, the release said. In total, Ohio is now home to 839 active Purple Star schools.
Each school’s designation is valid for three years.
“Ohio and our communities will always support and celebrate those who serve our country and their loved ones,” DeWine said.
“Purple Star schools recognize the unique strengths and perspectives that military students bring to our classrooms and ensure these students have all the support they need to reach their God-given potential. I congratulate our 2026 Purple Star schools for their efforts.”
In order for a school to qualify for the Purple Star designation, schools must designate a staff member to serve as a liaison to military families, according to the release.
“These liaisons complete professional development, identify military-connected students and coordinate support throughout the school community. Purple Star schools also participate in at least one supportive activity each year,” the release said.
Swanson said the elementary school organized a spirit week in April as part of the Month of the Military Child — which was first designated by the United States Department of Defense in 1986 to increase public knowledge and understanding of the issues surrounding children who have a parent in the military, according to the governor’s release.
The principal also shared a breakfast in April with students who have a parent in the military, she said.
“It’s a way to honor our students that have military parents that are either active, in the reserves or retired,” Swanson said.
Applications for next year’s Purple Star Class will open Nov. 1 and are due by Dec. 15.
Click here to view a complete list of awardees, a map of active Purple Star schools, application rules and more.
