SANFORD, NC - Nine additional Lee County Schools (LCS) have joined J. Glenn Edwards Elementary School on the state’s distinguished Purple Star Award list for 2024-2025. Bragg Street Academy, B.T. Bullock Elementary, East Lee Middle, Lee County High, Tramway Elementary, Warren Williams School, W.B. Wicker Elementary, SanLee Middle, and Southern Lee High have joined the ranks of the state’s most supportive schools for military students and families.
This year’s new awardees bring the district’s total to 10 of the 17 LCS campuses and highlight our local public schools commitment to growing and expanding services to help meet the complex needs of military connected families.
Awarded to schools that demonstrate military-friendly practices and a commitment to military students and families, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction recognizes schools annually and has done so since 2019. Statewide for 2024-2025, some 453 schools received recognition, which represents an increase of 59 schools.
All schools earning the Purple Star Award are required to have a staff member designated as the point of contact for military students and families, a designated central administration staff member supporting the point of contact in the school, and annual professional development addressing special considerations for military students and families. Designated schools also must have a transition program to support inbound and outbound military students and families, including a checklist for their use.
“Military-connected families are such an integral and important part of our community,” said Dr. Chris Dossenbach, Superintendent of Lee County Schools. “Their service and sacrifice place a tremendous burden on their families and that is why we believe that it is critical to provide additional support, care, and services that help ease some of the challenges associated with military life and transitions.”
LCS Executive Director for Student Services, Dr. Lisa Duffey agreed. “There are many hurdles to education associated with military life, whether it be frequent moves, deployments, interruptions in educational curriculum delivery, or making new friends and connections. Our awareness of these challenges keep us committed to providing a solid support structure for military-connected students and their families so that they can thrive while they are with us or as they transition to their next duty station.”