A ceremony held in Lehi recently recognized dozens of Alpine schools as Purple Star Schools. The designation, awarded by the Utah State Board of Education, identifies schools that demonstrate a high commitment to supporting military-connected students and families.
Increasing number of recognized schools
Thirty-seven schools in the district joined the ranks of previously recognized schools this year, bringing the total number of Purple Star Schools in the Alpine School District to 45. This follows eight schools receiving the designation last year.
Requirements for Purple Star designation
To earn the Purple Star designation, schools must meet five specific criteria established by the Utah State Board of Education. These requirements include designating a point of contact for military-connected students, maintaining a public webpage with specialized resources, implementing a student-led transition program, providing professional development for staff regarding military students, and holding a military-connected event.
District efforts to identify students
Rich Stowell, the district's communications director and Purple Star Schools liaison, stated that most schools in the district were already performing the actions required to earn the status. Stowell noted that while there is currently no way to know exactly how many military-connected students are in the district, a priority for the district is developing a method to identify them.
Board resolution for military families
Alpine School District Board of Education passed a resolution last year to publicize support for military families and the Purple Star School program.
Superintendent expresses commitment to families
Superintendent Rob Smith, a retired Army officer, expressed gratitude to the board for recognizing the opportunity to lead efforts in strengthening schools and communities. He stated that the recognition serves as a statement of commitment to military families.
Ceremony attendees and representatives present
The ceremony in Lehi was attended by representatives from over 60 schools across the Wasatch Front, along with members of the state school board, state legislators, Utah National Guard leaders, and representatives from Hill Air Force Base.
