The Ohio Department of Education announced in April that Mount Gilead High School was selected as one of 171 schools across the state to become a member of the Purple Star Class of 2024.
This award recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and families connected to our nation’s military. Schools that earn the award will receive a special Purple Star recognition to display on site.
Under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Zack Howard, Mount Gilead High School applied to the Ohio Department of Education to become a Purple Star School.
“As the superintendent of Mount Gilead and well beyond my own personal affinity for those that served and those that choose to serve, more importantly, I’ve learned that our community is patriotic and reveres our veterans and celebrates our young men and women who choose to enlist,” Howard stated. “Making sure we are a military friendly school district is important not only to our district but the community we serve.”
Purple Star schools must meet criteria and offer critical transition support for military-connected students and their families. Amongst the requirements for consideration were appointing a staff point-of-contact as well as maintaining a dedicated page on the website featuring resources for military.
Mount Gilead High School Principal Deb Clauss shared her perspective on the significance of the award.
“We are honored to be receiving this award. Those that serve our country are a great part of what makes America great, and we honor and support their families, as well, for all of their sacrifices,” she said. “The commitment that our school and district show to support these individuals and their families is to be commended. Thank you to our staff, our district and our community for continuing our Indian pride.”
To learn more about this designation and see the list of schools that have received the award, visit https://education.ohio.gov/Topics/Other-Resources/Military-Resources/Schools/Purple-Star-Award.
Submitted by the Mount Gilead Exempted Village School District.
