We are excited to announce that Columbia Elementary School has been awarded the prestigious Purple Star Award by the Virginia Council on the Educational Opportunity for Military Children!

This award recognizes schools that demonstrate a commitment to supporting military-connected students and their families. At Columbia ES, we understand the unique challenges faced by military families, and we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where every student feels supported and valued.

The Virginia Council on the Educational Opportunity for Military Children voted on October 21, 2024, to approve Columbia Elementary School as a recipient of the SY 2024-2025 Purple Star Award.

The Virginia Department of Education shares more information regarding the designation for Purple Star Schools: 

The Virginia Purple Star Designation is awarded to military-friendly schools that have demonstrated a major commitment to students and families connected to our nation’s military. Schools that earn the award will receive a special Purple Star recognition to display onsite.

A school will be honored with the Purple Star Award if it completes all the required activities, plus one optional activity. The Virginia Department of Education’s Military Student Support Process Action Team, (MSSPAT) will review all school applications for the award. Final approval on awards will be made by members of the Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact on the Educational Opportunity for Military Children.

• Read about how Fairfax County Schools were recognized for supporting Military-Connected Families.
• More details on Purple Star Schools can be found on the Virginia Department of Education's website.