Carmel Clay Schools is proud to announce it has been awarded the prestigious Purple Star Designation by the Indiana Department of Education. This esteemed recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to supporting service members, veterans, and the students and families connected to our nation's military. Districts are ineligible to receive the distinction as schools must individually meet the requirements. Each of our 15 schools was awarded the distinction. There are currently 102 Purple Star Designated schools statewide.

The Purple Star School Designation is a reflection of our staff's dedication to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members of our community, including those who have bravely served our country. This designation is valid for a three-year period, reaffirming our ongoing commitment to providing exceptional support to our military-affiliated students and families.

Superintendent Beresford expressed his deep pride in achieving this distinction, stating, "We are immensely proud to receive the Purple Star Designation from the Indiana Department of Education. This honor reflects our sincere gratitude and respect for the sacrifices made by our service members and their families. It is our duty and privilege to provide a supportive educational environment that recognizes and values their contributions to our nation."

This designation is a result of the collective efforts of our dedicated staff, students, families, and community partners. We remain committed to upholding the principles that the Purple Star Designation represents, and we look forward to continuing our work in creating an inclusive and supportive educational experience for all.

In Indiana, schools receiving the Purple Star designation must meet the following criteria:

• Have an assigned point of contact for military families,
• Meet all grade-level training requirements for point of contact,
• Have a dedicated webpage providing recognition and resources for service members, veterans and students and families,
• Host an annual military program (e.g., Veterans Day, 9/11, etc.),
• Have a public military display recognizing service members,
• Submit a school board resolution publicizing support for military students and families, and
• Ensure military service members and their immediate family members meeting minimum job qualifications for open positions at the school will be guaranteed a job interview.