In recognition of Veterans Day, Florida Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas announced that 451 schools have received the Purple Star School of Distinction Designation. This includes 78 new schools and renewals from all 124 schools in the program’s inaugural cohort. Within the Florida College System, 16 colleges have been named Collegiate Purple Star Campuses, with seven new colleges added this year.
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, said, “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.”
State Board of Education Member Layla Collins shared her personal perspective: “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 of Distinction program was established through legislation signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2021. It recognizes schools providing additional support for military-connected students and their families. Initially launched with 124 schools, the program has since expanded statewide.
In 2023, Governor DeSantis also signed into law the Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campus Program to recognize colleges committed to serving military families.
A district-level recognition—the Florida Purple Star School District Designation—was created in 2024 for districts where at least 75% of schools earn individual designations. Five school districts previously received this honor; this year, Florida Virtual School (FLVS) joins them.
For more information on designated K-12 schools or how institutions can join the program, visit the Florida Department of Education’s Purple Star webpage. A list of recognized college campuses can be found at Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campuses webpage.
