Ohio's Purple Star program, which began in 2017 and now reaches more than 800 schools, will mark its 10th anniversary in April. The Department is asking schools to send photos of Purple Star events and activities for a commemorative collage. Schools can upload individual files or share a folder link through a form connected to the anniversary.
The Department has scheduled an Oct. 20 webinar at 4 p.m. for schools pursuing an initial or renewal Purple Star Designation. Separately, the fifth annual Purple Star USA National Convening of Schools and Communities is set for Oct. 22, a free online gathering running 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. where supporters at all levels can exchange practices.
The Ohio Council of the Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission is organizing an Ohio Veterans and Military Family Spirit Week Nov. 9-13, tied to Veterans Day and the Month of the Military Family.
Also listed: the Hearts for Heroes national card design challenge for students in grades K-12, with a public vote choosing five finalists in each grade category, 15 overall, and designs due Oct. 30, 2026; and Operation Homefront's 2027 Military Child of the Year Award, which recognizes ages 13-18 and accepts submissions through Dec. 1.
Key Purple Star dates: the application window opens Nov. 1, office hours fall on Nov. 19 and Dec. 9, and the window closes Dec. 15. A Purple Star Student Summit is listed for March 9, 2027. The bulletin directs questions about the designation to Jason Scragg at PurpleStar@education.ohio.gov and convening questions to Jenn Davis.