Mike Wolanin | The Republic An exterior view of the Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation administration building in Columbus, Ind., Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022.
Four Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp. schools were recognized by the state for their commitment to students and families connected to the United States military.
Central Middle School, Northside Middle School, Columbus North High School and CSA New Tech were each designated as an Indiana Purple Star School, the Indiana Department of Education announced.
Over 100 schools were newly designated or renewed their designation as an Indiana Purple Star School this year, which is valid over a three-year time period.
“Our schools play a vital role in uniting communities to honor and celebrate our service members and military-connected families,” said Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education. “At our Purple Star Schools, this is a part of their culture, constantly seeking ways to make life a little easier for those who give so much. In doing so, our educators are helping students to understand the meaning of service, the importance of giving back, and how – through civic pride and responsibility – they too can make our communities, our state, and our nation, a better place.”
To receive the designation, schools much meet seven different criteria, including having an assigned point of contact for military families and a dedicated webpage providing recognition and resources for veterans and military families.
Schools must also hold a public military display recognizing service members and ensure military service members and their immediate family members that meet minimum job qualifications for open positions at the school would be guaranteed an interview.
It’s also required that a given school board pass a resolution publicizing support for military students and families. The group passed one regarding secondary schools in Feb. 2025.
All 11 of BCSC’s elementary schools earned the designation in 2023.
