The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education announced Thursday that Blair Oaks School District has been designated a 2023 "Purple Star School District."
The designation goes to military-friendly districts that show a "major commitment to students and families connected to our nation's military." It lasts for three years.
To earn the honor, districts must apply and show professional development related to considerations for military students and families, have a trained point of contact for military families, have a dedicated military family webpage, pass a resolution in support of military students and families, and host an annual program such as a Veteran's Day or 9/11 ceremony.
The Blair Oaks Board of Education adopted a resolution last month acknowledging the challenges faced by military families, including frequent moves and separations, and offering gratitude to military personnel, their families and veterans.
"Be it further resolved, the Board of Education of the Blair Oaks R-II School District encourages all school staff and community members to initiate, support, and participate in appreciation activities designed to recognize the exceptional role and unique sacrifices our military-connected youth make in our nation's best interest," the resolution states.
Kimberley Walters, Blair Oaks assistant superintendent and military liaison, said the district held professional development across the district to help staff keep their "radar up" and be sensitive to the difficulties children experience as they may move from school to school in military families.
The district has added a marker for students in military families within its school information system so teachers can see that designation and be aware when dealing with students.
Walters said there are 39 military families in the district.
The district also does things to recognize seniors going into the military and has sent care packages or held fundraisers to help soldiers overseas.
She said the district decided to apply for the Purple Star designation to give recognition where it was deserved for "things that we were already doing."
The district will be recognized at the Capitol next week. It will receive a Purple Star recognition to display on campus and on its website.
Blair Oaks is one of seven districts and four schools to receive the designation this year, according to the DESE news release.
"This program is just one way to reiterate our state's commitment to our service members," Commissioner of Education Margie Vandeven said in a news release. "As we continue to celebrate April as the Month of the Military Child, it is an honor to award these seven school districts and four schools with the Purple Star designation. Each district and school works to support our service members and their families throughout the community, while also ensuring these children are prepared to find their path to success in Missouri."