Coesse Elementary is proud to announce it was awarded the prestigious Purple Star Designation by the Indiana Department of Education. This esteemed recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to supporting service members, veterans, and the students and families connected to our nation's military. Districts are ineligible to receive the distinction as schools must individually meet the requirements.

The Purple Star School Designation is a reflection of our staff's dedication to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members of our community, including those who have bravely served our country. This designation is valid for three years, reaffirming our ongoing commitment to providing exceptional support to our military-affiliated students and families.

This designation is a result of the collective efforts of our dedicated staff, students, families, and community partners. We remain committed to upholding the principles that the Purple Star Designation represents, and we look forward to continuing our work in creating an inclusive and supportive educational experience for all.

“I wanted to apply for Coesse to be a Purple Star School because our students take so much pride in the way they honor our Veterans each year. It is a great opportunity to teach the students about the branches of the military as well as the importance of protecting our freedoms. Having a permanent display with pictures and stories of the valiant men and women in our community will consistently remind us of their service and sacrifices,” said Emily Hare, Coesse Elementary teacher.  

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our teachers, staff, and students. Coesse Elementary and Indian Springs have both worked to ensure military-connected students and their families are celebrated and supported. These efforts not only honor those who have served but also provide an opportunity for all students to understand the value of service, sacrifice, and patriotism,” said Mr. Laura McDermott, WCCS Superintendent.  

The Purple Star School Designation is a reflection of the district’s ongoing commitment to supporting military-connected families, and WCCS is proud to join a growing number of schools across the state of Indiana that are making military students feel at home and supported.  

A full list of the newly awarded schools in 2024 can be found here.

In Indiana, schools receiving the Purple Star designation must meet the following criteria:

• Have an assigned point of contact for military families,

• Meet all grade-level training requirements for point of contact,

• Have a dedicated webpage providing recognition and resources for service members, veterans and students and families,

• Host an annual military program (e.g., Veterans Day, 9/11, etc.),

• Have a public military display recognizing service members,

• Submit a school board resolution publicizing support for military students and families, and

• Ensure military service members and their immediate family members meeting minimum job qualifications for open positions at the school will be guaranteed a job interview

Indiana Department of Veteran Affairs
https://www.in.gov/dva/

Whitley County Veteran Services
https://www.whitleycounty.in.gov/department/index.php?structureid=37

VA Benefits and Healthcare
https://www.va.gov/

Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 and press 1 or please call 911. You can also text to 838255