In a remarkable recognition of its commitment to serving military-connected youth, Hardin County Schools (HCS) has proudly announced that six more of its educational institutions have been bestowed with the prestigious Purple Star Award by the Kentucky Department of Behavioral Health, Developmental, and Intellectual Disabilities.
The newly honored schools include Central Hardin High School, East Hardin Middle School, GC Burkhead Elementary School, Heartland Elementary School, North Middle School, and West Hardin Middle School.
The Purple Star Program, an integral part of the Department’s strategy to fortify the resilience of Kentucky’s military-connected youth, aims to ensure that these students receive comprehensive support to address their social, emotional, and academic needs. With an estimated 50,000 youth in Kentucky reporting military connections, the significance of such initiatives cannot be overstated, particularly considering the unique challenges these students face due to family members’ service and deployments.
Teresa Morgan, Superintendent of Hardin County Schools, expressed her deep gratitude for the dedication exhibited by HCS staff toward every student and family. “Our district holds immense respect and gratitude for our military community,” Morgan remarked. “The Purple Star Award is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our staff to provide exceptional support to all students, including those with military connections.”
Apart from the six schools mentioned, several others within the HCS district have also received the Purple Star Award, underscoring the district’s steadfast commitment to serving military-connected families. These include Bluegrass Middle School, James T. Alton Middle School, John Hardin High School, New Highland Elementary School, North Hardin High School, North Park Elementary School, Radcliff Elementary School, Rineyville Elementary School, Vine Grove Elementary School, and Woodland Elementary School.
The Purple Star Award Program in Kentucky operates under the oversight of an Advisory Board composed of representatives from 18 agencies serving service members and veterans. This collaborative effort underscores the state’s dedication to providing comprehensive support to military-connected youth and their families.
With this commendation, Hardin County Schools reaffirms its commitment to excellence and compassion in serving all students. Congratulations to all the recognized schools for their outstanding dedication to supporting military-connected youth!