Silver Strand Elementary, Village Elementary, Coronado Middle and Coronado High School are among 75 schools awarded the designation of Purple Star School in 2026.
For a second time, the California Department of Education awarded the designation of California Purple Star to each public school in the Coronado Unified School District.
The department says the California Purple Star School Designation Program publicly recognizes and designates schools that demonstrate a commitment to meeting the unique needs of military-connected students and their families.
According to the department, the program aims to reduce the burden on military-connected students and their families with resources and programs that welcome and socially acclimate incoming military-connected students with their peers.
CUSD Superintendent Karl Mueller said receiving this recognition for a second time is a testament to CUSD’s deep commitment to military students and its close partnership with Naval Base Coronado.
“It’s an honor to provide transition support and services and to welcome these resilient and diverse students into our classrooms,” said Mueller in a statement. “Their experiences and perspectives bring an invaluable energy and perspective to our student body.”
State schools superintendent Tony Thurmond announced the 2026 California Purple Star Schools in February. The list increases the number to 202 Purple Star schools in the state.
“I am proud to congratulate the educators, staff, administrators, parents, and students at every one of our Purple Star Schools,” said Thurmond in a statement. “Each one of our Purple Star Schools works thoughtfully and tirelessly to ensure that our military-connected students are supported to learn, grow, and thrive while their parents serve our country.”
According to the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE), the state department recognized 43 schools in San Diego County as 2026 Purple Star Schools. The office says there are 107 schools with the designation, which is good for three years, in the county.
Coronado Unified says it plans to celebrate its Purple Star awards and honor the strong military-community within the district at its April 16 governing board meeting, during the Month of the Military Child.
“Our military connected students are a vital part of the culture and spirit of Coronado schools,” said Mueller.
