HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY) — Hampton City Schools announced 100% of their schools received the Virginia Purple Star Designation. For the first time, officials said all 31 of their schools received accreditation for their dedication to military families.

The Virginia Purple Star Designation is awarded to military-friendly schools demonstrating commitment to students and families of our nation’s military. Schools retain the designation for three years before reapplying.

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) and the Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children said they have recognized 288 public and private schools across the Commonwealth as Purple Star Schools.

According to VDOE, Virginia is home to several of the nation’s largest military installations and currently serves more than 77,000 school-age military-connected students in public schools. This number does not include children of veterans attending public or private schools.

For schools to be awarded the certification, they must meet standards ranging from inclusivity to parental rights. Additionally, at least 70% of the division’s staff must be able to prove training regarding special considerations for military students and families.

“We are honored that Hampton City Schools has been designated a Purple Star school division. This recognition reflects our deep commitment to the military-connected students and families who are such an important part of our community,” said Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes. “With Hampton being the home of Joint Base Langley-Eustis and other installations in close proximity, our military partnerships truly strengthen who we are as a division. This honor also speaks to our collective effort to live by our mantra—One Community, One Transformation: Excellence with Intentionality. Together, we are building a culture of care, connection, and excellence for every student.”

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