CHS, CMS earn Purple Star for work with military students and families

Two more Canutillo Independent School District campuses have earned the Texas Education Agency’s Purple Star Designation for their work supporting military-connected students and families.

Canutillo High School and Canutillo Middle School were notified earlier this month that they met the state’s rigorous criteria for the recognition. The distinction is awarded to schools that demonstrate a strong commitment to meeting the unique needs of children of military service members.

The new designations mean six Canutillo ISD schools now hold the honor. Alderete Middle, Davenport Elementary, Childress Elementary and Reyes Elementary were recognized last year. Schools maintain their designation for two years.

District leaders said the recognition highlights the district’s long-standing efforts to support military families who make up a significant part of the Canutillo community due to its proximity to Fort Bliss.

The Purple Star program was created by the Texas Legislature in 2019 to help military-connected students transition successfully into new schools and communities. Criteria for the designation include appointing a campus-based military liaison, creating a dedicated web page with resources for military families, maintaining partnerships with local military organizations, and providing transition programs for incoming students.

At Canutillo High School, students were exposed to several opportunities to engage with and learn from members of the military. Additionally, the campus also provided specialized support to ensure students meet graduation requirements even when transferring from schools in other states or countries.

“Canutillo High School is honored to be recognized as a Purple Star campus,” Principal Candace Marrufo said. “We are committed to ensuring that military-connected students and their families feel supported and welcomed as they transition into our school community. This recognition is a testament to the hard work of our staff and students.”

Canutillo Middle School has focused on building military connections for all students through orientation activities and extracurricular clubs. 

“This designation highlights the dedication our teachers and staff have to the unique needs of military families,” Principal Christopher Judge said. “We will continue working to ensure that every child feels at home and every family knows they are part of our school.”