A total of 451 schools in Florida have received the Purple Star School of Distinction designation, with 78 new schools added and all 124 schools from the initial group renewing their status. Additionally, within the Florida College System, 16 colleges were recognized as Collegiate Purple Star Campuses, including seven new institutions this year.
Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas stated, “Florida’s veterans, service members and military families make daily sacrifices to defend our freedom. Florida’s Purple Star Schools and Collegiate Purple Star Campuses remain steadfast in ensuring military families receive consistent, high-quality education no matter where they are stationed.”
Esther Byrd, Vice Chair of the State Board of Education, commented on the state’s ongoing commitment: “Florida remains committed in our mission to be the most military-friendly state in the nation. The Purple Star designation highlights our ongoing commitment to ensuring that military families have access to the best educational opportunities available. We will continue to honor the service and sacrifice of our military veterans and service members by supporting their children and ensuring their success in every classroom across our state.”
State Board of Education Member Layla Collins said, “As a veteran myself and wife of a Purple Heart recipient, I’ve seen firsthand the sacrifices military families make. Our Purple Star Schools and Campuses exemplify what it means to go above and beyond for military-connected students, ensuring that every child is supported and set up for success.”
The Purple Star Schools program was established by law in 2021 under Governor Ron DeSantis to recognize K-12 schools that provide extra support for students from military families. The initiative began with 124 schools. In 2023, a similar recognition was created for colleges through legislation signed by Governor DeSantis.
In 2024, a district-level recognition was introduced—the Florida Purple Star School District Designation—which honors school districts where at least three-quarters of campuses hold individual school designations. Five districts had previously achieved this recognition; this year Florida Virtual School (FLVS) joined them.
Governor DeSantis has continued efforts to support active-duty personnel and veterans’ families through related programs and legislative measures.
The full list of designated K-12 schools can be found on the Florida Department of Education’s Purple Star webpage. Information about recognized colleges is available at the Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campuses webpage.
