Barnesville, Union Local Schools Achieve Purple Star School Status

Barnesville’s Elementary, Middle and High Schools were recently renewed for a three-year term as Purple Heart schools while Union Local’s three schools were recognized for the first time. They are part of the list of 367 schools that earned the designation for the Class of 2025.

Purple Star schools show a significant commitment to serving students and families connected to our nation’s armed forces. Of this group, 115 schools received the esteemed award for the first time, while 252 schools earned a renewal. Ohio is now home to 700 active Purple Star schools that dedicate time and support students in military families.

All awardees work diligently to meet the unique wellness and academic needs of Ohio’s military-connected youth. To qualify, schools designate a staff member to serve as a liaison to military families. These liaisons complete professional development, identify military-connected students, and coordinate support throughout the school community. Purple Star schools also participate in at least one supportive activity annually. The Purple Star Class of 2025 includes schools that host monthly military kids club meetings, provide professional learning for all educators on considerations regarding the needs of military-connected students, implement peer-to-peer transition programs, or organize schoolwide celebrations honoring military students and families.

The Purple Star designation is valid for three years, after which schools may apply for renewal. Applications for the Purple Star Class of 2026 will be open Nov. 1 – Dec. 15.

The announcement of the Purple Star Class of 2025 is part of Ohio’s participation in the celebration of the Month of the Military Child. April was first designated as the Month of the Military Child by the United States Department of Defense in 1986 to increase public knowledge and understanding of the issues surrounding children who have a parent in the military.

For questions related to the Department’s Purple Star Award and initiatives supporting military families, visit the Purple Star Designation webpage or email PurpleStar@education.ohio.gov.