Purple Star Schools

The New Mexico Public Education Department (PED) recognizes schools that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to military-connected children and fostering a welcoming environment for active-duty service members, National Guard members, reserve members, and veterans. The New Mexico Purple Star Schools Program provides a certification framework for schools that support the success and well-being of military-connected students by offering specialized academic, social, and emotional resources. For schools that do not currently serve military-connected students, the program also recognizes those committed to honoring and celebrating the service and accomplishments of active-duty military personnel, National Guard members, reserve members, and veterans.

Application Process

• SY 2026-2027: The certification application windows will be shortened.
• Each application cycle will include a reapplication period for schools that are not certified during the initial review.
• SY 2027-2028: The standard application period will begin, running form January 2027 through March 2027; reapplication period from May 2027 through June 2027.
• Two application options are available: one for schools that serve military-connected students and another for schools that do not serve military connected students.
• Purple Star School certification is awarded at the school level, not the district level.
• When deciding which application to complete, note that under New Mexico law, a ‘military-connected student’ means a student who is a dependent of a current or former member of the United States military, New Mexico National Guard, or reserve force in the United States military, or who was a dependent of a member of the United States military, New Mexico National Guard, or reserve force in the United States military who was killed in the line of duty. Because this definition includes children of veterans and former service members, virtually all schools qualify to use the application track for schools with military-connected students.

Technical Assistance/Office Hours

Our team is available to provide guidance and support throughout the application process. Please register for upcoming office hours to receive assistance or have your questions answered.

Application

Resources

Contact

Sarah Smith
At-Risk Program Administrator
Email: purple.star@state.nm.us
Phone: 505.500.9868