Southside School District honors Month of the Military Child in April

Junior high students at Southside High School celebrating Purple Up! Day (All images: Southside School District)

The Southside School District Board of Education has adopted a resolution recognizing April as the Month of the Military Child, a national observance celebrating the resilience and sacrifices of children in military families.

Throughout the month, the district is highlighting the role military-connected students play in the school community and acknowledging the unique challenges they face while their families serve the nation.

As part of the observance, the district celebrated Purple Up! Day on Thursday, April 9. Students, staff, and community members were encouraged to wear purple — a color representing all branches of the U.S. armed forces by blending Army green, Marine Corps red, and the various blues of the Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard.

District schools are participating in activities to honor military families, including the creation of a “Wall of Heroes” to recognize family members who serve or have served. Classrooms also held discussions on the significance of the month.

Superintendent Dion Stevens emphasized the importance of recognizing these students and their families.

“During the Month of the Military Child, we proudly recognize the strength, resilience, and sacrifice of the students whose families serve our nation,” Stevens said. “Our military-connected children show remarkable courage as they adapt to new schools and new communities.“

Stevens added that the district remains committed to ensuring these students feel valued and welcomed in every classroom.

District leaders said they hope the activities will inspire the community to support military-connected students and their families. 

Southside preschoolers celebrate Month of the Military Child.

The Wall of Heroes.

Southside Elementary students also celebrating Purple Up! Day.