BRYAN CITY SCHOOLS RECEIVES PURPLE STAR DESIGNATION
On behalf of the Purple Star Advisory Board and the Ohio Department of
Education, it is with great honor and pleasure that Bryan Elementary
& Bryan Middle/High School have received the Purple Star
Designation!
The Purple Star Award for military-friendly schools recognizes schools
that show a major commitment to students and families connected to our
nation’s military. Schools that earn the award will receive a special
Purple Star recognition to display onsite. The Purple Star Advisory
Board — formed by the Ohio department of Education, Higher Education,
Veterans Services and Adjutant General — helps determine school
eligibility.
“We are grateful for the individuals who serve in our nation’s armed
forces, and we recognize the unique challenges students of military
families face during their learning journeys. Our school communities are
in a unique position to offer essential supports to ensure these
students are prepared for success and their families are cared for and
appreciated,” said Paolo DeMaria, State Superintendent of Instruction.
“Today we recognize the schools showcasing these supports and inspiring
all of us by their commitment to our military families.”
Among the requirements BCS had to meet to receive the Purple Star Award
was designating a staff member to serve as a liaison between
military-connected students, their families, and the school. The liaison
is to inform teachers of the military-connected students in their
classrooms and the special considerations military families and students
should receive. Bryan City Schools also had to establish a webpage (
https://bryan.k12.oh.us/community/military_students___families) for military families, which provide resources necessary for attending public school.
Mrs. Karyn Cox, Director of Elementary Education, completed the BCS
application process and worked with district educators. “Military
students tend to be flexible and resilient and bring a wealth of
knowledge to the classroom. It is important that teachers know how to
support our military students and their needs. Our goal is for all
military connected students to feel supported and to have an equal and
fair opportunity for academic success. BCS is grateful to our service
men and women who have served and are currently serving our country.”
Superintendent Mark Rairigh added, “this designation is humbling for the
fact that BCS is so fortunate to be connected to so many great men and
women who have served, or are currently serving, for our freedoms. We
look forward to continuing to partner with these amazing heroes.”
More information regarding this designation can be found on the Ohio Department of Education’s webpage: Purple
Star Designation | Ohio Department of Education
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said, “Ohio’s military members and their
families embody the ideals of service, sacrifice, and community. But
they can’t do their jobs alone. The Purple Star Schools awarded today
recognize the sacrifices military members and their loved ones make.
These school communities have made a commitment to support them inside
and outside the classroom. Purple Star Schools are shining examples of
Ohioans working together, encouraging one another, caring for one
another and, ultimately, creating a brighter future for our state.”