Nineteen Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) have earned the 2026 Purple Star Distinguished School Award from the Virginia Department of Education, recognizing their work to support military-connected students and their families. The division announced the honorees on Oct. 15.

The latest round brings PWCS to 51 Purple Star schools across the division. Eighteen of this year’s 19 schools are renewing their designation, and eight of those are earning it for the third time. Glenkirk Elementary School is the only first-time recipient.

Kimberly Simpson, PWCS military achievement specialist, said she is proud of the schools’ commitment to military-connected families. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our school communities and the ongoing commitment of PWCS leadership to fostering belonging and ensuring every military-connected student can thrive,” she said.

Virginia awards the Purple Star designation to military-friendly schools that show a strong commitment to meeting the educational and social-emotional needs of students from military families. Those students often move frequently, which means adjusting to new classrooms and new friend groups more often than their civilian peers.

First-time award   * Third award

•      Antietam

•      Bristow Run**

•      Covington-Harper

•      Glenkirk*

•      Gravely**

•      Haymarket

•      Kyle Wilson**

•      Lake Ridge

•      Mary Williams**

•      Minnieville**

•      Mountain View

•      Old Bridge**

•      Rockledge

•      Pennington

•      Gainesville**

•      Graham Park

•      C.D. Hylton**

•      Patriot

•      Potomac

The full list of PWCS Purple Star schools is available on the PWCS website.

Source: Prince William County Public Schools.

Like what you read? Get The Gazette.

The Woodbridge Gazette is independent, hyperlocal news for Prince William County and surrounding communities, free in your inbox every Monday. Subscribe here.