Austin Academy for Excellence has earned the Purple Star Campus designation from the Texas Education Agency, becoming the first school in Garland ISD and in Region 10 to receive this recognition. The distinction honors the campus’s dedication to military-connected students and families and celebrates a community that goes above and beyond to ensure these families feel seen, supported, and valued.

To earn the designation, schools assign a military liaison, provide professional development for staff on supporting military-connected students, create a dedicated military family webpage, implement a student transition program, and offer at least one initiative designed specifically for military families.

At Austin Academy, the designation reflects more than meeting requirements. It reflects a commitment to people.

Assistant Principal Charla McClure, who serves as the liaison, explained why the recognition mattered, saying, “We have so many students whose parents serve or have served in the military, and I wanted to make sure we continued that connection with our families. This was an opportunity to show them we see them, we support them, and we are here for them.”

She often describes military-connected students as “dandelions” for their resilience and ability to thrive wherever life takes them. “They grow and thrive in all kinds of conditions, adapting to new environments every time their families move or parents deploy. They are resilient, and our job is to make sure they feel supported and included.”

Austin Academy brings this commitment to life through events such as the Month of the Military Child pinning ceremony. Students recognized their peers and honored their parents’ service, giving military families a moment of pride and connection while highlighting the unique challenges these students face.

Principal Dr. LaKeisha Rider praised the leadership behind the effort, saying, “Ms. McClure led the charge. She heard about the program, brought it back to us, and said, ‘We’re getting that star.’ Her vision and determination carried us forward, and because of her, our students and families now have even more support.”

Dr. Rider added that she hopes Austin Academy will serve as an example for others.

“I don't want Austin to be the only Purple Star Campus in our region. I want us to be the first. I hope that this designation inspires other campuses to pursue it, so more military families feel the support they deserve.”

The Purple Star designation lasts two years, but Austin Academy’s leaders say this is only the beginning.

“This is not just about an award,” said McClure. “We are already planning new ways to honor and support our military families because we know the difference it makes for our kids.”

Austin Academy stands unmatched in its dedication to military families, proud to lead the way with a built-different approach that sets the standard for others.