Christian County Public Schools celebrated its eight elementary schools Monday afternoon, as they were presented with the Purple Star Designation award.
Officials with the Department of Defense, local Military Affairs Committee, the Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission, Cabinet for Health and Family Services, along with Governor Andy Beshear and First Lady Britainy Beshear were on hand for the ceremony at Christian County Middle School. The Purple Star designation recognizes schools that show a major commitment to serving students and families connected to our nation’s armed forces.
Director of Military Affairs Kristi Murtha commended the elementary schools on their work, saying military children are frequently moving and starting over in new communities, which can make a stable education difficult—but CCPS is committed to making it easier for them.
Retired Brigadier General Steven Bullard says this is the first year for this program in Kentucky, with CCPS being one of only ten districts to receive the designation, and they’re eager to expand it further.
Governor Beshear says Christian County and its school system has shown that they’re ready to do what they can to welcome military service members and take care of their families while they’re here.
To earn the Purple Star Award a school designates at least one school staff to serve as a military youth liaison. The schools host at least one military recognition event per school year and post-military resources on its webpage.