LAUDERDALE COUNTY, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) – Naval Air Station (NAS) Meridian is recognizing local educators for their dedication to military-connected children through the Military Star School Program. Earlier today, Commanding Officer Luke Davis surprised Mrs. Courtney Ashcraft, a teacher at Northeast Elementary, with the prestigious Military Star School award for her outstanding efforts in supporting the educational needs of military children.
The Military Star School award, established by NAS Meridian officials, honors teachers who go above and beyond to support children whose parents serve in the military. The award is part of an initiative to help schools provide resources and assistance for the social-emotional and educational challenges faced by military-connected children during their transitions to new schools.
April is also the Month of the Military Child, making this recognition especially significant.
The Military Star School program is designed to help schools meet the unique needs of children from military families, whether they are children of active duty service members or veterans in the National Guard and Reserves. The program aims to keep military-connected students on track to be college, workforce, and life-ready.
To earn the Military Star designation, schools must implement programs and offer resources that support military-connected students, ensuring they have a seamless transition as they move between schools due to relocations.
In February 2022, Governor Tate Reeves signed Executive Order No. 1561, establishing the Military Star School Program in Mississippi. Mississippi is one of 31 states that have passed policies or legislation recognizing and supporting Military Star Schools.
NAS Meridian continues its mission of supporting military families and recognizing educators who play a crucial role in helping students from military families thrive.
IMAGE: Mr. Larry Mullins (who is the NAS Meridian School Liaison Officer), Mrs. Ashcraft and Commanding Officer Davis
