In an effort to acknowledge schools that go the extra mile for military families, Governor Greg Abbott has announced that 98 Texas schools have been awarded the Purple Star Campus Designation for the 2025-2026 academic year. This initiative has now recognized a total of 640 schools across Texas, solidifying the state's commitment to students from military backgrounds.
"Texas is home to nearly 200,000 military-connected students attending public schools across our state," said Governor Abbott, highlighting the important role of educational institutions in supporting military families. These Purple Star campuses meet stringent requirements, such as having a designated military liaison and offering specialized transition programs for military-connected students. Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath also praised the expansion of the program, saying, “With 640 schools now carrying this designation, we are ensuring that military children receive the care, stability, and support they deserve, no matter where their service takes them.”
The Purple Star Campus Designation, established by a 2019 law, recognizes schools that show a significant commitment to military families. The designation is not limited to schools with large military-connected populations, as all public schools in Texas are eligible to apply. The application process is conducted annually, and the designation remains valid for two years before schools must reapply, according to the Texas Governor's office.
Key components of the designation criteria include the appointment of a campus-based military liaison, creation of a dedicated webpage for military families, and establishment of a campus transition program to assist military-connected students as they navigate school life. This program illustrates Texas' sustained effort to provide for families of service members, recognizing the sacrifices made by military personnel, and their loved ones.
