Cookeville, Monterey Highs Honored As Purple Star

Cookeville and Monterey High Schools recognized for service to families connected to military, as both schools named Tennessee Purple Star School Award winners.

Just 44 schools across the state have received the honor. The state created the award in 2019. Lieutenant Alex Anderson of the Air National Guard joined other dignitaries Wednesday in presenting the honor to both schools.

Director Of Schools Corby King said both schools prioritize assistance and support for children from military households

“Both schools recognize the unique challenges they encounter due to frequent relocations and potential parental deployments,” King said. “Acknowledging that the service of one family member impacts the entire household, they have worked hard to implement initiatives within their schools to foster a welcoming environment for these students.”

Tennessee currently has 10,230 children in active-duty families and 14,560 guard and reserve families.