Join the Department to celebrate the Month of the Military Child

4/3/2023

In April, Ohio and the nation will celebrate the Month of the Military Child. This is a time to recognize the sacrifices that military service members and their families make for the security and safety of the nation. Across the nation, states, communities and schools celebrate in many ways, including wearing purple.

The Ohio Department of Education partners with the Ohio and national councils of the Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission (MIC3) to enact the provisions of the compact to assist military children across the state. The Interstate Compact on Education Opportunity for Military Children lowers barriers and supports military-connected students when their families transition between duty stations or are activated from the National Guard or reserves.

April was first chosen as the Month of the Military Child by the U. S. Department of Defense in 1986 to increase public knowledge and understanding of the issues surrounding children who have parents in the military. For more resources to help schools and communities recognize the Month of the Military Child, visit the Military Child Education Coalition’s Month of the Military Child website. The MIC3 national office released a list of celebration ideas and the state council scheduled spirit week for April 17-21.

Participating in celebrations of the Month of the Military Child is one of the activities schools can complete to earn the Purple Star designation. The Purple Star Award recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and families connected to our nation’s military. The Class of 2023 awardees will be announced later this month.

For questions about Purple Star or supporting military-connected students, contact Jason Scragg.