Ten NISD campuses earned the Purple Star Campus Designation for the 2023-24 school year from the Texas Education Agency (TEA). They are Behlau, Mora, Scarborough, and Wernli elementary school; Bernal and Luna middle school; and Brennan, Harlan, Jay, and Stevens high schools.
The Purple Star Campus Designation recognizes Texas district and charter schools that show their support and commitment to meeting the unique needs of military-connected students and their families. This special honor was created effective April 9, 2020, by the 86th Texas Legislature.
“It is such an honor that Harlan High School has been recognized for our support of military-dependent families,” said Michelle Rodriguez, head counselor at Harlan High School. “This designation shows that we have had the opportunity to meet the needs of students and families that have worldly experiences that offer unique experiences to share with their peers.”
“When we recognize these students, it's personal,” she said. “The excitement they have when they are honored at the military breakfast, a show of support from staff and students during Month of the Military Child, and the numerous campus initiatives to recognize them are invaluable.”
Every fall, TEA awards the Purple Star Campus designation to campuses that apply and meet the following established criteria:
1) Designate a campus-based military liaison that must:
- Support military-connected students and their families.
- Offer professional development opportunities for staff members on issues related to military-connected students.
2) Create and maintain an easily accessible web page that includes information for military-connected students and their families.
3) Must have a campus transition program that includes:
- Introductions to school environment and processes.
- Student leaders or ambassadors should be supported or sponsored by a campus-based staff member.
- Participate in organizing and hosting newcomer social events, facilitating guided tours of the campus, and accompanying new students to lunch the first week of school.
4) Offer at least one of the following initiatives:
- A resolution showing support for military-connected students and families;
- Participation in Month of the Military Child or Military Family Month; or
- Partnership with a school liaison officer to encourage and provide opportunities for active duty military members.