The Higley Unified School District is celebrating a significant achievement as three of its schools — Chaparral Elementary School, Sossaman Middle School, and Cooley Middle School — have been awarded the Arizona Purple Star School designation.

This recognition is given to schools that demonstrate a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by military families and provide exceptional support to military-connected students. 

The Arizona Purple Star School designation is awarded based on several criteria including the presence of a dedicated point of contact  for military families, staff training on the needs of military-connected students and the implementation of programs and activities that support these students.

Schools must also demonstrate a commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment through various patriotic events and initiatives. 

Chaparral, Sossaman and Cooley all have appointed a point of contract to assist military families and ensure staff are equipped with strategies to support them.

Additionally, these schools offer peer-to-peer mentoring programs, welcome activities for new students and a calendar of patriotic events to honor military families and veterans. 

Chaparral's initiatives include  a student leader "Welcome Wagon," an ongoing Wall of Honor, and an annual veteran's appreciation breakfast.

Middle School offers peer-to-peer mentoring through its Purple Up Club and hosts events such as red, white, and blue spirit days and a remembrance ceremony.

Cooley Middle School integrates peer-to-peer mentoring program with the Where Everyone Belongs initiative and organizes events like a Veteran's Day breakfast and assembly.

More information on programs at each school is available by visiting the Arizona Purple Star School program pages on their websites.