PWCS logo with a white graduation cap and a gold shooting-star swoosh on a purple background with faint stars.The Virginia Department of Education recognized 19 schools in Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) with the 2026 Purple Star Distinguished School Award for their commitment to supporting military-connected students and families.

With these recognitions, PWCS now has 51 Purple Star schools across the division, reflecting the division’s ongoing commitment to ensuring every student experiences a sense of belonging and has the resources and opportunities needed to succeed.

“I am incredibly proud of our 2026 Distinguished Purple Star Schools for their unwavering commitment to supporting military-connected students and families,” said Kimberly Simpson, military achievement specialist. “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.”

This year’s recognition includes 18 schools renewing their Purple Star designation, with eight earning the distinction for the third time. Glenkirk Elementary School joins the list as a first-time recipient.

The 19 recognized PWCS schools are:

Elementary Schools   

Antietam

Bristow Run**

Covington-Harper

Glenkirk*

Haymarket

Kyle Wilson**

Lake Ridge

Mary Williams**

Minnieville**

Mountain View

Old Bridge**

Rockledge

Gravely**

 

Traditional Schools

Pennington

 

Middle Schools

Gainesville**

Graham Park

 

High Schools

C.D. Hylton**

Patriot

Potomac

 

*First Award

**Third Award

The Virginia Purple Star Designation is awarded to military-friendly schools that have demonstrated a strong commitment to meeting the educational and social-emotional needs of military-connected students and their families.

PWCS is committed to recognizing and supporting the educational journeys of these students. They often face frequent relocations, requiring them to adapt to new academic and social environments more frequently than their civilian peers.

For the full list of PWCS Purple Star schools, please visit the PWCS website.