Maryland Purple Star Schools Announced

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, April 25, 2025

Dr. J. Scott Smith, Superintendent of Schools, 301-475-5511, ext. 32178
Dr. Joseph Beavers, Deputy Superintendent of Schools, 301-475-5511, ext. 32135

LEONARDTOWN, MD - St. Mary’s County Public Schools (SMCPS) is pleased to announce that the following schools have been recognized as a Maryland Purple Star School for the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 school years by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE):

·         Hollywood Elementary School

·         Leonardtown Elementary School

·         Leonardtown High School

Becoming a Purple Star School is a mark of distinction.  It indicates that the school is dedicated to serving military-connected students and their families, which can boost its reputation and community engagement. Receiving the Purple Star School designation reflects the school’s unwavering commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for military families. Hollywood Elementary, Leonardtown Elementary, and Leonardtown High School are three of twenty-three (23) schools across Maryland honored for this distinction. 

Dr. J. Scott Smith, Superintendent of Schools, said, “It is exciting to have Hollywood Elementary, Leonardtown Elementary, and Leonardtown High School recognized for their dedication and supportive environment for military-connected students, in addition to Captain Walter Francis Duke Elementary, which was recognized last year.”

In February 2023, the Maryland State Board of Education adopted COMAR 13A.06.10 Purple Star Schools Program. To attain Purple Star designation, schools must meet, at a minimum, the four criteria outlined in COMAR 13A.06.10. They are Military Liaison, Digital Resources, Peer-Led Transition Program, and Staff Training.  For more information about the Maryland Purple Star School Program, visit https://marylandpublicschools.org/about/Pages/DSFSS/PurpleStar/Purple-Star.aspx