ISBE Launches Purple Star School Program to Support Military-Connected Students

​SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) today announced the launch of the Purple Star School program, a new statewide initiative recognizing schools that demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting military-connected students and families. The designation highlights schools that take intentional steps to address the unique academic and social-emotional needs of these students, helping ensure that they experience smooth transitions and consistent support.

"Every student deserves a school that is ready to meet them where they are," said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. "Military-connected students often navigate frequent transitions, and it's our responsibility to ensure those moves don't disrupt their learning or sense of belonging. The Purple Star School program recognizes schools that are stepping up to provide stability, continuity, and meaningful support for these students and their families."

Military-connected students often experience frequent school transitions that can disrupt academic progress and access to programs and services. Differences in curriculum, credit transfer policies, and eligibility for extracurriculars or specialized supports can create barriers, while repeated moves can also take a social and emotional toll. The Purple Star School program recognizes schools that take proactive steps to reduce these barriers and ensure continuity and support for military families.

In Illinois, there were more than 15,000 military-connected students in the 2024-25 school year.

Applications for SY 2025-26 are available in ISBE's Web Application Security (IWAS) system and due May 24. All applicants will be notified of their status prior to Veterans Day in fall 2026.

To receive the Purple Star designation, schools must:

• Have a designated school-based point of contact for military families
• Provide professional development training on military-connected student needs
• Comply with all provisions of the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children
• Maintain a student-led transition program
• Maintain a resource webpage for military families
• Participate in at least three supportive activities, such as an annual military recognition event, a public military display, a school board resolution, a military appreciation sporting event, a Month of the Military Child activity, or a community service project

As part of the application, schools must provide supporting documentation of their efforts, along with a narrative demonstrating how they address the transitional needs of military-connected students and families.

Schools awarded the Purple Star School designation will be recognized for a period of three years. Designated schools will be listed on the ISBE website and receive a formal letter of recognition. Renewal will be required to maintain the designation.

For more information on the Purple Star School program, visit ISBE's Children of Military Families webpage.