CARSON CITY, Nev. - The Nevada Department of Education (NDE) is proud to announce three schools have been awarded the Purple Star School designation. Schools receiving this award have committed to supporting the unique educational and social-emotional needs of military-connected children. Nevada is home to almost 11,000 military-connected children.

"Military-connected students move schools on average between six to eight times during their school-aged years. These Purple Star Schools affirm Nevada's unwavering commitment to supporting military-connected students and families," said Jhone Ebert, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. "I'm thrilled Nevada's schools continue to step up to support our military servicemembers and their families."

The three schools are:

• Legacy Traditional School - Cadence, State Public Charter School Authority
• Sheila Tarr Academy of International Studies, Clark County School District
• Somerset Academy, Aliante Campus, State Public Charter School Authority

NDE chose to announce the designations in April because it is the Month of the Military Child. Each awarded school is presented with a certificate and banner, signaling that the school supports the social and emotional well-being of military students in adjusting to a new school and the possible absence of a parent during deployment. 

"Legacy Traditional School - Cadence is so proud to be involved in the Purple Star School program," said Jennifer Emling, Superintendent of Legacy Traditional Schools - Nevada. "Our commitment to the unique needs of military-connected families and our deep understanding of the challenges these families face is an essential part of our program. It is an honor to be granted this designation recognizing our efforts."

"Being named a Purple Star School is a tremendous honor for Somerset Academy, Aliante Campus because it shows the level of appreciation our school and staff has for our military families," said Shannon Manning, Principal of Somerset Academy, Aliante Campus. "We recognize and honor the sacrifices made by our families, and this award is an affirmation of our commitment to them."

"Sheila Tarr Academy of International Studies is honored to show our dedication and commitment to our military families by becoming a Purple Star certified school," said Alyson Jones, Principal of Sheila Tarr Academy of International Studies.

The three recognized schools join 25 other Nevada schools and two school districts named since 2021. Other schools wishing to earn the designation can begin the application process online. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, and designations are awarded bi-annually during April and November.

The Purple Star School Award Program is facilitated by NDE in partnership with the Nevada Military Interstate Compact Commission Council.

Attachments:

Nevada Purple Star School Award

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About the Nevada Department of Education

The Nevada Department of Education (NDE) leads and collaborates with Nevada's 17 school districts and the State Public Charter School Authority to advance educational equity Statewide. With offices in Carson City and Las Vegas, NDE oversees all pre-K-12 education in the State, working to achieve its mission to improve student achievement and educator effectiveness by ensuring opportunities, facilitating learning, and promoting excellence. Under the leadership of the State Board of Education and the Superintendent of Public Instruction, NDE impacts the achievement of nearly half a million children and 30,000 educators. Learn more at https://doe.nv.gov/ and join us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.