By 1808Delaware
In a powerful affirmation of Olentangy Local School District’s commitment to military families, 22 schools across the district have been named to the Ohio Purple Star Schools Class of 2025.
The Purple Star designation, awarded by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, recognizes schools that go above and beyond in their support of students and families connected to the United States Armed Forces. With this announcement, two Olentangy schools—Berlin Middle School and Walnut Creek Elementary—join the ranks for the first time, while 11 others renewed their designations, continuing a proud tradition of service and support.
Building a Culture of Care
“We take great pride in the work of our military liaisons and building staff to support our military families across Olentangy,” said Superintendent Todd R. Meyer. “The Purple Star is evidence of the collaboration and connection that makes Olentangy stand apart.”
Each Purple Star designation is valid for three years and signals a school’s sustained dedication to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for children whose parents serve in the military.
Recognized Schools Across the District
The following Olentangy schools have received the Purple Star designation for 2025:
- New Designees
Berlin Middle School
Walnut Creek Elementary - Returning Designees
Berlin High School
Liberty High School
Orange High School
Berkshire Middle School
Cheshire Elementary
Heritage Elementary
Liberty Tree Elementary
Oak Creek Elementary
Scioto Ridge Elementary
Shale Meadows Elementary
Wyandot Run Elementary
These schools have demonstrated excellence by meeting or exceeding Ohio’s rigorous Purple Star criteria, which include having a trained military family liaison on staff and offering ongoing programming that supports students through transitions and deployments.
What It Takes to Earn the Star
To receive Purple Star status, schools must complete all required activities and at least one optional activity, such as hosting military appreciation events or creating student-led support groups. Most importantly, they must designate a trained staff member to serve as a military family liaison, acting as the first point of contact for service-connected students and their caregivers.
Schools are also required to publicly display their Purple Star recognition and maintain accessible information on available military family resources.
A Commitment Beyond the Classroom
The Purple Star Schools Program is about more than just accolades—it reflects a district-wide ethos that acknowledges and uplifts the unique experiences of military-connected youth. Whether through peer-to-peer transition clubs, parent support events, or military family welcome kits, Olentangy schools are helping students feel seen, supported, and successful.
For a full list of Olentangy’s Purple Star Schools and Military Family Liaisons, visit the Military Family Resources page.
As families across the country continue to serve, Olentangy stands ready to serve them in return—one school, one student, and one salute at a time.
