This week, the Utah State Board of Education (USBE) recognized Utah’s Purple Star Schools at the 2026 Purple Star Schools Awards Ceremony. This marked the largest cohort in the program’s history, with 78 new schools inducted, bringing the statewide total to 178 Purple Star Schools.
Purple Star Schools are recognized for their commitment to supporting military-connected students and families through strong programs, dedicated resources, and community partnerships. The designation highlights schools that go the extra mile to create welcoming environments and ease transitions for students whose families frequently relocate due to military service.
“We are grateful to the educators and school communities who have earned this recognition,” said Rod Hall, USBE Board Member, District 3. “Their dedication helps military families feel connected and supported, and it makes a meaningful difference in the lives of students across Utah.”
A Purple Star School is a designation awarded by USBE to K–12 schools that have created a supportive environment tailored to the unique needs of military-connected students and their families. These schools provide a smooth transition for newly enrolled students by assigning a dedicated military liaison to assist with enrollment, offering student-led transition programs, such as peer ambassador groups, and training educators to recognize the impacts of deployment and relocation.
To earn the Purple Star designation, Utah schools apply through USBE and must meet key requirements, including designating a staff liaison, maintaining a military-friendly webpage, establishing a student transition program, providing staff training, and hosting military recognition efforts each year.
Utah has adopted the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (MIC3), which helps remove barriers to educational success caused by frequent moves and parental deployment. The recognition of Purple Star Schools is part of broader efforts to support smoother transitions for military-connected students.
Applications for new Purple Star Schools for the 2027 school year will open on January 15, 2027, and close on March 31, 2027. Returning schools will also submit their annual reports by March 31, 2027.
USBE extends its sincere gratitude to the educators, staff, and school communities across the state for their dedication to serving military families and helping every student succeed.
For more information about Utah’s Purple Star Schools program, visit: https://www.schools.utah.gov/policy/purplestarschools
