Thirteen schools in the Hamilton Southeastern Schools (HSE) district have been recognized by the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) with the Indiana Purple Star School designation for their strong support of students and families connected to the U.S. military.

The announcement was part of a statewide recognition this week by Governor Mike Braun and the IDOE, honoring nearly 100 schools across Indiana for their commitment to serving military-connected students and honoring veterans and active-duty service members.

“Purple Star Schools exemplify what it means to serve others,” said HSE Superintendent Pat Mapes. “We’re proud of our schools for building a culture that recognizes the sacrifices made by our military families and helps ensure that every student, especially those navigating transitions tied to military life, feels supported and valued.”

To receive the Purple Star designation, schools must meet specific requirements, including appointing a trained point of contact for military families, maintaining an informational webpage with resources, hosting annual programs honoring military service, and providing job interview opportunities for qualified service members and their immediate family members.

The designation is valid for three years and underscores HSE’s district-wide dedication to honoring and supporting military families.

The HSE schools recognized with the 2025 Indiana Purple Star designation are:

• Brooks School Elementary

• Cumberland Road Elementary School

• Fall Creek Junior High

• Fishers High School

• Geist Elementary School

• Hamilton Southeastern High School

• Hamilton Southeastern Intermediate/Junior High School

• Lantern Road Elementary School

• New Britton Elementary School

• Sand Creek Elementary School

• Sand Creek Intermediate School

• Southeastern Elementary School

• Thorpe Creek Elementary School