The University of Texas High School District (UTHSD) is proud to announce that it has been awarded the Purple Star Designation by Governor Abbott’s Office for the 2024-2025 school year. This designation, created by Texas Senate Bill 1557, recognizes schools that actively support and address the unique needs of military-connected students and their families. UTHSD is honored to have both its Texas and International campuses recognized for this commitment.
Military families face a distinct set of challenges, including frequent relocations and disruptions in their children’s education. To address these challenges, UTHSD created the Military Connect Committee in 2022, a team dedicated to identifying and expanding the district’s resources and services for military-connected students. This committee has been instrumental in ensuring the district’s Purple Star Designation, mapping out existing initiatives, and implementing new strategies to better support these families.
A key benefit for military families is that UTHSD offers prioritized enrollment, meaning no waiting period when transferring school records. Additionally, if families receive a Permanent Change of Station (PCS), students can continue their coursework online without interruption, ensuring consistency in their education regardless of location. UTHSD Director of Testing Services, Ileana Mendez, whose own parents served in the Air Force and Navy Reserve, understands firsthand the complexities of relocating mid-semester. “Your orders don’t come in June when school ends,” Mendez shared, highlighting the need for flexibility and continuity that UTHSD provides.
Dr. Melissa Chavez, Interim Superintendent for UTHSD, emphasized the district’s dedication to military families, especially in a state that hosts some of the largest military installations in the country. “We want UT High School District to be a reliable resource for military families,” Chavez said. “Our Purple Star commitment means equipping our faculty and staff with the resources to integrate military children into their classes immediately. Thanks to the efforts of our Military Connect Committee, our entire team is prepared to meet the educational needs of military families and ensure a seamless transition for their children.”
The Purple Star Designation underscores UTHSD’s dedication to supporting the academic journey of military-connected students, reinforcing the district’s mission to serve those who serve. Learn more about options for military families at UTHSD and more at: https://highschool.utexas.edu/militaryconnectedstudents