Edited release
04/24/26
The Iowa Department of Education today announced that 17 Iowa schools are the first to be awarded the distinguished Iowa Purple Star School Program designation, following enactment of the Department’s prefiled legislative proposal in 2025. As an Iowa Purple Star School, these schools demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting military-connected students and learners.
Among the 17 schools given the award are Iowa City High and West High School.
To earn an Iowa Purple Star School designation, schools were required to appoint a staff member to serve as a military liaison for students and families and maintain a dedicated webpage with resources tailored to supporting military-connected families. Additionally, schools agreed to host programs or events that raise community awareness about the unique challenges faced by military-connected students, while also offering educator and staff professional development to help address those challenges. Those selected receive the Purple Star School designation for a three-year period.
Additional information on the Iowa Purple Star School Program can be found on the Iowa Department of Education’s website.