In observance of Veterans Day, Florida Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas announced that 451 schools have been recognized with the Purple Star School of Distinction Designation. This year, 78 new schools received the honor, and all 124 schools from the initial group renewed their status. Additionally, within the Florida College System, 16 colleges were awarded the Collegiate Purple Star Campus designation, including seven newly designated institutions.
Commissioner Kamoutsas stated, “Florida’s veterans, service members and military families make daily sacrifices to defend our freedom. Florida’s Purple Star Schools and Collegiate Purple Star Campuses remain steadfast in ensuring military families receive consistent, high-quality education no matter where they are stationed.”
Esther Byrd, Vice Chair of the State Board of Education, commented on the state’s commitment: “Florida remains committed in our mission to be the most military-friendly state in the nation. The Purple Star designation highlights our ongoing commitment to ensuring that military families have access to the best educational opportunities available. We will continue to honor the service and sacrifice of our military veterans and service members by supporting their children and ensuring their success in every classroom across our state.”
Layla Collins, a member of the State Board of Education and a veteran herself, added: “As a veteran myself and wife of a Purple Heart recipient, I’ve seen firsthand the sacrifices military families make. Our Purple Star Schools and Campuses exemplify what it means to go above and beyond for military-connected students, ensuring that every child is supported and set up for success.”
The Purple Star Schools program was established through legislation signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2021. It recognizes schools that provide extra support and resources for students from military families. Initially launched with 124 schools participating, it has since expanded significantly.
In 2023, Governor DeSantis also approved legislation creating the Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campus Program to recognize colleges dedicated to supporting military-connected students.
A district-level recognition was introduced in 2024—the Florida Purple Star School District Designation—which honors districts where at least three-quarters of schools have earned individual distinction as Purple Star Schools. Five school districts previously achieved this status; this year Florida Virtual School (FLVS) joined them.
Governor DeSantis has continued efforts to support active-duty service members and veterans through various legislative measures aimed at improving educational opportunities for their families.
For more information or to view lists of recognized K-12 schools or colleges under these programs visit:
– The Florida Department of Education’s Purple Star webpage.
– The Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campuses webpage.
