School District Five has been named a Purple Star School District by the South Carolina Department of Education. The Purple Star School program makes a significant commitment to welcome and support military families.
The districts who earn this distinction must complete the following SC Department of Education criteria for Purple Star Designation:
• Assign a designated liaison to be a single point of contact for military families and military-connected students who is trained to support issues facing military families, including relocation, deployment, loss, and academic training;
• Create a website specifically for military families to provide current information about schools and the district;
• Adhere to the Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission (MIC3) to ensure students receive transfer credit from previous schools so they will not have to retake classes;
• Ensure transfer students can participate in sports, clubs, and other school enrichment programs; and
• Provide specialized training for school counselors, staff, and administrators.
• Purple Star School Districts also have student ambassadors at each school who help incoming military-connected students feel welcomed and help them navigate their new school. They also assist exiting students with the hardship of leaving.
“We are honored to be recognized as a Purple Star School District,” Dr. Akil E. Ross, Sr. said. “This designation reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting military-connected students and their families. Our schools strive to create a welcoming environment where every child, regardless of their background, can feel loved in our schools and can grow academically. Being a Purple Star District is a testament to the dedication of our educators, staff, and community to provide the best possible education and support for those who serve our country.”
There are currently 16 Purple Star Designated Districts in South Carolina. To learn more about the program, visit https://tinyurl.com/3ytepuvn.
