About us

Every military-connected youth in Kentucky receives what they need to succeed.

The Purple Star Award designation is a state-sponsored recognition for individual schools’ dedication and support of military-connected youth. Our mission is to instill a sense of connection and strengthen resilience within Kentucky’s military- connected youth. Schools must complete four requirements to receive the Purple Star Award.  Schools awarded the Purple Star designation lets military-connected students and families know, whether they are active duty, National Guard, Reserves, or Veterans, that their school is dedicated to helping their child gain the educational and social-emotional skills necessary to be college-, workforce- and life-ready. The program started in Ohio in 2017 and is supported by the US Department of Defense, Military Child Education Coalition, and the Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission. Currently, 41 states across the United States implement the program in their schools and school districts.

Our goals are to:

  1. Create and sustain a statewide support system within schools and communities that work together to build resilience and support for military-connected youth in Kentucky.
  2. Increase protective factors to help prevent substance use and behavioral health challenges among military-connected youth in Kentucky.
  3. Partner with schools and communities to foster diverse, inclusive, and supportive environments for military-connected youth and families.
  4. Educate the schools and community on the challenges faced by military families.

Governor Beshear and First Lady Support the Kentucky Purple Star Award Program