BALTIMORE — Twelve Southern Maryland schools have earned Maryland’s Purple Star School designation for their support of students from military-connected families, the Maryland State Department of Education announced Monday, April 27.
The designation recognizes schools that provide strong services for military families, including a dedicated military liaison, digital resources, student-led transition support and staff training on the needs of military-connected students.
“Our Purple Star Schools excel in serving the unique needs of our military-connected students and families,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools. “These school communities create welcoming environments, fostering a sense of support and belonging that provides the foundation for student success.”
Calvert County Public Schools had nine schools named Purple Star Schools for 2026-2028, while St. Mary’s County Public Schools had three schools recognized.
Calvert County
- Huntingtown High School
- Patuxent High School
- Southern Middle School
- Barstow Elementary School
- Dowell Elementary School
- Mount Harmony Elementary School
- Huntingtown Elementary School
- Mutual Elementary School
- Sunderland Elementary School
St. Mary’s County
- Captain Walter Francis Duke Elementary School
- Leonardtown Middle School
- Park Hall Elementary School
“Congratulations to Maryland’s Purple Star School honorees,” said Dr. Joshua L. Michael, State Board of Education President. “These schools reflect our commitment to the families who serve our country, creating environments where their children experience a true sense of belonging and are supported to succeed.”
The schools are among 27 across seven Maryland school systems receiving the designation. Honorees will be recognized Tuesday, April 28, during the Maryland State Board of Education meeting.
Maryland joined the national Purple Star Schools recognition program in 2023. See the full list of schools in the Maryland State Department of Education press release.
Watch the Maryland State Board of Education meeting for April 28 below.
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