Three HCPSS Schools Recognized as 2026-2028 Purple Star Schools

April 28th, 2026

Bellows Springs (BSES), Thunder Hill (THES) and Veterans (VES) elementary schools have been named Purple Star Schools by the Maryland State Department of Education in recognition of their strong services and support for students from military-connected families. BSES, THES and VES are three of 27 schools across the state to achieve this distinction, which they will hold from 2026-2028.

To be eligible for Purple Star recognition, schools must have a dedicated military liaison, provide accessible digital resources, offer a student-led transition program and ensure staff receive training on the unique needs of military families.

“In 2023, we were honored to be one of eight Maryland elementary schools recognized as a Purple Star school, which created a greater awareness for our military-connected students amongst our BSES community. Now, in 2026, we are thrilled and honored to have our Purple Star recognition renewed,” says Julie Schruefer, BSES Principal. “Many of our students and staff are directly connected to both active-duty personnel and veterans who may have unique challenges, especially when a parent or spouse is deployed. Our staff supports our students through these challenges and continues to learn new ways on how to reach each and every military family. The entire Bellows Spring staff is committed to our military connected community and continuing the work of creating a sense of belonging for our military families.”

“Thunder Hill Elementary is constantly looking for ways to empower our students,” says Sonia Hurd, THES Principal. “Being recognized as a Purple Heart School is another terrific way to encourage this select group of students and their families. Military students often face unique challenges that civilian students are not subjected to or understand. We are committed to assisting our military families in making positive connections in our school and community.”

“Veterans Elementary has always honored veterans through traditions such as our annual Veterans Day celebration, which reflects our commitment to service, gratitude, and civic responsibility,” says Alexcia Redd, VES Principal. “We are proud to be recognized as a Maryland Purple Star School, a distinction that reflects our steadfast commitment to supporting military-connected students and their families. This recognition reinforces our responsibility to ensure smooth transitions and meaningful support for every military-connected child we serve.”

Maryland joined the national Purple Star program in 2023. BSES was the first Howard County school to receive the Purple Star distinction in 2023. Last year, Bollman Bridge and West Friendship elementary schools were also named Purple Star schools and will maintain that distinction through the 2026-2027 academic year.

HCPSS has additional information and resources for military families online.