Ohio Purple Star Advisory Board

To better support military families, the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce created the Purple Star Advisory Board. The Board advises on best practices, resources, and recommendations to further the shared goal of improving educational programs for military-connected youth. The Purple Star Advisory Board helps decide eligibility requirements for the Purple Star Award. 
 

Membership

The board includes representation from educators and stakeholders from around the state with a passion to serve the military community. The members of the advisory board include:

• Jason Scragg, Ohio Department of Education and Workforce
• Valerie Kunze, Ohio Department of Education and Workforce
• Pete LuPiba, Ohio MIC3 Commissioner
• Tammy Puff, Governor’s Office 
• Chip Merkle, Ohio National Guard 
• Chris Picha, Ohio Department of Veterans Services
• Jason Durell, United States Army Reserve  
• Jared Shank, Ohio Department of Higher Education
• Megan Worcester, Military Family Member
• Jaythan and Corrin Voltz, Military-Connected Students
• Jenn Davis, Preschool Teacher 
  Huber Heights City Schools 
• Ashley Twedt, Elementary Teacher
  Clearfork Valley Local Schools  
• Matt Cox, Elementary Teacher 
  Big Walnut Local Schools 
• Michelle Lewis, Middle School Teacher
  Olentangy Local Schools 
• Christine Young, Middle School Teacher 
  Anthony Wayne Local Schools 
• Chad Marzec, High School Teacher
  Liberty-Benton Local Schools
• Jessica Howell, High School Teacher Perrysburg Schools
• Chad Wyen, Superintendent
  Mad River Local Schools 

Members serve as long as they are willing and able. If a member cannot fulfill their term, the vacancy will be filled through the open application process. Vacancies to the board are posted and communicated to Purple Star Schools. Individuals can apply using Purple Star Advisory Board Application. All applicants remain in a pool for future vacancies in the event that all positions are filled.
 

Meetings

The board meets virtually twice per year, once in late spring (May) and again in the fall (September). Additional meetings may occur on an as-needed basis. The Department determines meeting time, date, and agenda in consultation with board members. Members must attend all regular meetings. If a member is unable to attend, a member can designate an alternate representative. The alternate should be familiar with the Purple Star program.

Last Modified: 4/22/2024 10:59:10 AM

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