Fai
rview High School and Lewis F. Mayer Middle School have once again been honored with the Purple Star Award by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. This renewed designation, valid through 2027, recognizes the schools’ continued commitment to supporting military-connected students and their families.
The Purple Star Award is presented to schools that demonstrate a dedicated and sustained effort to meet the academic and social-emotional needs of students from military families. The designation is overseen by Ohio’s Purple Star Advisory Board, which evaluates schools on a set of rigorous criteria, including the presence of a military family liaison, staff professional development, and student-led initiatives that raise awareness of military life and service.
“Ohio’s military-connected youth require supports that consider their unique wellness and academic needs, especially while navigating school transitions,” said Stephen D. Dackin, Director of the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, in a letter congratulating the Fairview Park City Schools. “The Purple Star award signifies your school’s demonstrated commitment to serving these students and families.”
“We are honored to be part of a network of schools across Ohio that provide vital resources and care to the families who serve our country,” Fairview Park City School District Superintendent Keith Ahearn added. “This recognition speaks volumes about the student and family-centered culture we have built in Fairview Park.”
First established in 2017, the Purple Star Award is part of a statewide initiative to ensure Ohio’s military-connected students are supported throughout their education. Schools must reapply every three years to maintain the designation, showing continued growth and commitment.
With this recognition, both Fairview High School and Mayer Middle School are encouraged to display the Purple Star logo on campus and online, and to share their Purple Star activities with the Department via social media to celebrate this achievement.
The renewal of these awards reflects the district’s ongoing mission to create a welcoming, supportive environment where all students, including those from military families, can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.