Eight additional Stark-area schools have earned the state’s Purple Star designation this year.
Gov. Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Education and Workforce Director Stephen D. Dackin announced April 20 that 304 Ohio schools earned the Purple Star designation as part of the Class of 2026.
This year’s class includes 153 schools earning the designation for the first time and 151 schools earning renewals for their continued dedication to Ohio’s military families.
The honor is given to schools that demonstrate a significant commitment to serving students and families connected to the nation’s armed forces.
“Ohio and our communities will always support and celebrate those who serve our country and their loved ones,” DeWine said in a news release. “Purple Star schools recognize the unique strengths and perspectives that military students bring to our classrooms and ensure these students have all the support they need to reach their God-given potential.”
In total, Ohio is home to 839 active Purple Star schools, with each school’s designation valid for three years.
Several schools in Stark County have already earned the Purple Star status.
New Purple Star schools from the area include:
Renewing Purple Star schools include:
This article originally appeared on The Independent: Which Stark area schools earned Purple Star recognition in 2026?
Reporting by Amy L. Knapp, Massillon Independent / The Independent
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
