3 St. Mary’s Schools Earn Purple Star Designation
Three St. Mary’s County public schools were recognized by the Maryland State Department of Education for their strong services and support for students from military families.
Captain Walter Francis Duke Elementary School, Leonardtown Middle School, and Park Hall Elementary School joined 24 other schools in Maryland to be honored as 2026-2028 MSDE Purple Star Schools.
“Our Purple Star Schools excel in serving the unique needs of our military-connected students and families,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright, state superintendent of schools. “These school communities create welcoming environments, fostering a sense of support and belonging that provides the foundation for student success.”
“Congratulations to Maryland’s Purple Star School honorees,” said Dr. Joshua L. Michael, State Board of Education president. “These schools reflect our commitment to the families who serve our country, creating environments where their children experience a true sense of belonging and are supported to succeed.”
To earn the designation, 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.
(Maryland State Department of Education photos)
The other Purple Star Schools include:
Anne Arundel County Public Schools — Meade High School, MacArthur Middle School, Magothy River Middle School, West Meade Early Education Center
Calvert County Public Schools — Huntingtown High School, Patuxent High School, Southern Middle School, Barstow Elementary School, Dowell Elementary School, Mount Harmony Elementary School, Huntingtown Elementary School, Mutual Elementary School, Sunderland Elementary School
Harford County Public Schools — Roye-Williams Elementary School
Howard County Public School System — Bellows Springs Elementary School, Veterans Elementary School, Thunder Hill Elementary School
Prince George’s County Public Schools — Melwood Elementary School
Queen Anne’s County Public Schools — Kent Island High School, Queen Anne’s County High School, Centreville Middle School, Matapeake Middle School, Stevensville Middle School, Sudlersville Middle School
Maryland joined the Purple Star Schools national recognition program initiative in 2023.
