For the third year in a row, Wayne County Public Schools (WCPS) received notification that all of its schools earned the Purple Star Award designation from the North Carolina Department of Instruction (NCDPI) for their demonstrated military-friendly practices and a commitment to military students and families. For this achievement, WCPS earned the distinction of receiving the State Superintendent’s Purple Star District Award.
“Being a Purple Star District three years in a row affirms our district’s commitment to ensuring military connected students have a network of support while they are enrolled in our schools,” states Dr. David Lewis, WCPS superintendent. “This is a tremendous honor for our schools and our district. We congratulate each school for its achievement and for the ongoing efforts in place to support military connected students during times of transition and change.”
The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction has been recognizing schools through the Purple Star Program since 2020. For all four years, WCPS has had schools recognized with the Purple Star Award designation. In the very first year, 20 WCPS schools received the Purple Star Award designation.
In order to receive the Purple Star Award designation, schools must complete several required activities, plus an optional activity, aimed at ensuring strong support for students of military families. District leaders attribute its continued success to the strong relationship the district has with Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, and the school supports that are in place to help address the unique challenges military connected students and families face.
Base leadership say they are appreciative of the school district’s continued support and dedication to Airmen and their families.
“This award is a testament to the invaluable partnership between Seymour Johnson Air Force Base and the Wayne County Public School System,” said Colonel Lucas Teel, 4th Fighter Wing Commander. “We are honored to be part of a community that cares so much for its military families. Congratulations to all the dedicated educators, faculty, and staff. We look forward to further cultivating our relationship in the years to come.”
NCDPI will recognize all Purple Star Award schools and districts at an awards program in April.
