Fifth Annual Military Signing Week Honors Students Around the State

Charleston, W.Va. - The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE), in collaboration with the Common Ground Partnership, will celebrate Military Signing Week (MSW) across the state to recognize students who commit to military service in the United States Armed Forces. MSW, now in its fifth year, is April 20 - 24 and provides communities with an opportunity to show their support and appreciation for students making the noble decision to serve their country. West Virginia has nearly 45 schools that have registered events to date, with the majority taking place during the week.

The WVDE recognizes enlistment as a viable career path toward post-secondary success for students. It not only allows them to use the skills and knowledge acquired in pk-12, but also to thrive as citizens and soldiers, protecting the public's interests. MSW events also support the West Virginia Board of Education's career readiness goals, which encourage a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and respond to workforce and economic demands.

"We are pleased to see the incredible responses from our school communities that host signing-day activities in celebration of our students," said State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt. "West Virginia students are prepared to accomplish incredible feats upon graduation. Military Signing Week recognizes those who will serve their country and communities with dignity and pride while gaining important skills that drive the economy. We are honored by their service and enthusiastic about their future endeavors."

The Common Ground Partnership consists of military, government and community-based organizations dedicated to helping all students pursue education, employment or enlistment upon graduation. Their combined resources offer students career exploration opportunities, empower educators to enhance instruction and encourage educational leaders to create a climate that meets the unique needs of military-connected children and families.

View the full list of MSW locations and events. Media interested in covering these activities should contact the host school.