Four California Schools First in County to Earn Purple Star

Moving to a new school is hard for any kid, but imagine doing it six to nine times before graduation.

That's the reality for most military children. On April 28, Parks Reserve Forces Training Area (Camp Parks) and Dublin Unified School District celebrated a milestone designed to ease that burden: four local schools earned California's prestigious Purple Star Recognition for supporting military families.

Frederiksen Elementary, Wells Middle School, Eleanor Murray Fallon Middle School, and Dublin High School became the first schools in Alameda County to achieve this military-friendly designation. The Purple Star Program recognizes schools that go above and beyond to meet the unique needs of students whose parents serve in uniform.

Earning the recognition isn't easy. Schools must appoint a dedicated staff liaison for military families, maintain specialized transition programs, provide targeted staff training, and create web resources specifically for military-connected students.

"The average military child can move up to ten times during their K-12 career," said Wency Hickman-Miller, Camp Parks Child and Youth Services Outreach Services Director. With each move, these students face the challenge of making new friends, catching up academically when state standards differ, and managing the stress that comes with constant change.

Dublin Unified School District spent 18 months working closely with Camp Parks to build the right support systems. "We know that military-connected children move an average of six to nine times during their school years, bringing immense psychosocial stressors," said Matt Campbell, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services.

The celebration featured a touching moment when Nalani Martinez, a seventh grader at Wells Middle School and daughter of two Army sergeants, led the school board and community in the Pledge of Allegiance.

The Ripple Effect

This achievement strengthens a partnership that's been decades in the making. Camp Parks has supported national defense while maintaining deep roots in Dublin for generations, and this recognition formalizes the community's commitment to military families.

Lt. Col. Richard King, Camp Parks Garrison Commander, made the Purple Star program a priority since taking command in July 2024. "Our service members can fully focus on their mission and national readiness only when they know their families are supported and embraced by the local community," he said.

The program's impact extends beyond the four schools. When military families know their children will be welcomed and supported, service members can concentrate on their duties without worry. That benefits everyone who depends on a ready and focused military.

Superintendent Chris D. Funk emphasized what this means for the entire district. "It reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring every student, especially those from military families who sacrifice so much, feels seen, supported, and welcomed."

These four schools are proving that with intentional support, military children can thrive despite the challenges of constant moves.