Local schools receive veteran recognition

MONROEVILLE — Two local schools recently received recognition for their commitment to serving students and families connected to the military. The school districts of Monroeville and Port Clinton represent two out of 304 Ohio-based schools that earned a Purple Star designation from Gov. Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce director Stephen Dackin. This recognition is given every year. For 2026: • 153 schools earned a star for the first time this year. • 151 earned renewal stars for their continued support for military families. "Ohio and our communities will always support and celebrate those who serve our country and their loved ones," DeWine said. "Purple Star schools recognize the unique strengths and perspectives that military students bring to our classrooms and ensure these students have all the support they need to reach their God-given potential." There are now 839 active Purple Star schools in the state. Stars are valid for three years. "We applaud your dedication to providing resources and support to military students so they can achieve academic success and be prepared for the future," Dackin said. "The Purple Star award reflects these schools' strong commitment to fostering supportive school environments that uplift military students and their families, while benefiting the entire student body." To qualify, schools must: • Designate a staff member to be a liaison to the military families • Liaison must complete professional development, identify students with military connections and coordinate support throughout the school community • Participate in at least one supportive activity a year. Local winners Locally, Monroeville High School was recognized as a renewal this year. "We are so proud to be recognized again as a Purple Star School," Monroeville superintendent Kristin Kaple-Jones said. "It is an honor to be able to serve our military families and recognize the service of the veterans in our community," Kaple-Jones added. "Monroeville has a rich history of military service in the community, and it's important that we continue to serve the students and families of our military members to support their education. The Purple Star award acknowledges this commitment to our students and community." This is the first year Port Clinton Middle School earned a star for its dedication to military families. "We are honored that the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce has named Port Clinton Middle School a Purple Star School for the Class of 2026," Port Clinton superintendent Pat Adkins said. "This designation reflects our commitment to supporting the academic and wellness needs of our military-connected students and their families." Port Clinton Middle School has a page on its website dedicated to support for military families. On this page, families can find contact information for the district's military family liaison, Denny Antonelli, Port Clinton Middle School principal. "Becoming a Purple Star-designated school is a great honor for Port Clinton Middle School. We have several veterans on our staff and students with family members who are currently serving," Antonelli said. "Our school is committed to honoring the sacrifice of those men and women in service by providing the support their families need right here in Port Clinton." On the website, there are also links to organizations that military families might find supportive, like the National Military Family Association and Military One Source — Youths & Teens. The school has also hosted events for military personnel and veterans. In April of last year, the school celebrated the homecoming of Staff Sgt. Debb Chapman, who surprised her children while on leave. Heather Merckens, social studies teacher, also organized a Veterans Day table at the middle school.