Fairfield Career Center was recently named among more than 150 schools in Ohio to be granted Purple Star designation by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce.
The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce announced that 171 Ohio schools received Purple Star designations as members of the Purple Star Class of 2024. Purple Star schools show a significant commitment to serving students and families connected to our nation’s armed forces. Ninety-seven Ohio schools received the esteemed award for the first time, and 74 schools earned a renewal after three years as dedicated Purple Star Schools.
“Achieving the Purple Star designation showcases Fairfield Career Center's unwavering dedication to providing exceptional service to our military-connected students and their families as they transition to their next step beyond high school, symbolized by the "E" of Enlistment,” said FCC principal, Beau Stidham. “This commitment extends beyond the current graduating class to future cohorts. It is a promise to offer support, acknowledgment, and achievements to all students and their families. I am proud to be part of a team that collectively values the significance of nurturing our students' academic, technical, and professional development.”
To qualify for the award, schools choose a school-based staff person to serve as a liaison between military families and the school. These liaisons complete professional development, identify military-connected students, and facilitate support throughout the school community for identified students and families. Assistant principals Heather Tinsley and Angela Fuentes will serve as liaisons to students and families at Fairfield Career Center. For both, helping FCC earn Purple Star designation, serve military-connected families, and support students interested in military service is personal. Before becoming an educator, Tinsley served in the U.S. Army National Guard. Fuentes is the proud parent of a military serviceman, who is currently serving in the U.S. Army.
“Holding the Purple Star designation is indeed crucial for providing a support system for military-connected students,” said Tinsley. “It underscores a commitment to understanding and effectively addressing their needs, which is paramount in ensuring their success in education. This dedication to supporting those who have served our country and their families is not just significant, it's essential in honoring their sacrifices.”
Purple Star schools also participate in at least one supportive activity each year. The Purple Star Class of 2024 includes schools that host monthly club meetings, provide professional learning for all educators on the unique considerations of military-connected students, implement peer-to-peer transition programs, or host schoolwide celebrations honoring military students and families.
Ohio is now home to 600 active Purple Star schools that dedicate time and support to students in military families. All awardees meet the unique wellness and academic needs of Ohio’s military-connected youth.
Fairfield Career Center receives the designation for three years, after which it can apply for renewal of the designation. The complete list of statewide awardees and active Purple Star schools is available on the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce’s Purple Star School webpage.
For questions related to the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce’s Purple Star Award and initiatives supporting military families, visit the Purple Star Designation webpage or email PurpleStar@education.ohio.gov.