Legislation sponsored by Senator Jean Stanfield that would establish the “Purple Star Schools Program” in the Department of Education was approved today by the New Jersey Senate.

Legislation sponsored by Sen. Jean Stanfield that would establish the “Purple Star Schools Program” in the Department of Education was approved today by the New Jersey Senate. (Pixabay)

“Children of military service members face many unique responsibilities during their school years,” said Stanfield (R-8). “Between K-12, military children can move to different locations six to nine times, which separates them from family and friends as well as familiar social environments. This kind of upbringing means finding the right school is extremely important—and by designating certain educational institutions as ‘Purple Star Schools,’ we can call attention to schools that provide for the educational and social-emotional challenges military-connected students encounter.”

Stanfield’s bill, S-1800/A-3694, would create a “Purple Star Schools Program” in the Department of Education to recognize schools which emphasize the importance of assisting children of military families.

A Purple Star School will be designated as such if it provides programs and services that include the following:

• Training for faculty and staff members to ease entry into the new school environment for military-connected students;
• Student-led programs to help create social connections, including an emphasis on programs for students who arrive mid-year and miss out on the normal cycles of sports and club activities; and
• Holding school-wide military recognition events that raise awareness and recognize the value of military service.

“With this legislation, New Jersey will further its commitment to the brave men and women who serve this nation by formally recognizing schools that go the extra mile to support their children,” added Stanfield.