Clover Park School District (CPSD) has been named a Purple Star District for 2026 and 2027 for its strong commitment to military-connected students and families through the implementation of military-friendly policies and practices by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) and Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA).  

CPSD is one of 11 school districts statewide to receive the two-year Purple Star Award this year and has received this honor since it was established by the Washington State Legislature in 2023.

“Our unwavering commitment to military-connected students and families sets CPSD apart. This award honors the exceptional dedication of our CPSD team, who works tirelessly to ensure every student thrives in our schools,” Superintendent Banner said. “We are honored to serve those who serve.”

More than a third of CPSD students are military-connected. Military life can mean frequent moves, new schools and social situations, parent deployments and other challenges. CPSD staff work closely with families to make every transition smoother. 

The Purple Star Award program recognizes school districts that demonstrate a strong commitment to their military-connected students and families through the implementation of military-friendly policies and practices. School districts that meet the eligibility requirements earn a two-year Purple Star designation. 

Eligibility requirements include the following:  

• The district maintains a dedicated page on its website featuring resources for military families.   
• The district has a designated staff point of contact for military families who: 
  • Collaborates with the State Military Family Education Liaison of the Interstate Compact Council to serve military families; 
  • Serves as the primary liaison between military families and the school district; 
  • Completes professional development on special considerations for military students and families under relevant state and federal law; and 
  • Identifies and informs teachers of military-connected students in their classrooms and the special considerations military families and students should receive under the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children.  
• Districts must also meet one of the optional criteria: 
  • Provides professional development for additional staff on special considerations for military students and families; 
  • Adopts a resolution publicly affirming the district’s support for military children and families; or 
  • Hosts a military recognition event that demonstrates a military-friendly culture.  

April is the Month of the Military Child. The community is encouraged to join CPSD staff, students and families in showing support for our community’s military-connected students by wearing purple on Thursday, April 23.