Five Augusta Schools Receive Military Flagship Award

Students at Augusta schools enjoy a moment of unity while honoring military families.

News Summary

In a significant recognition, five schools in Augusta have been awarded the 2024-2025 Military Flagship Award by the Georgia Department of Education. This award honors schools that support military families and students, especially during deployments. Schools like David Perdue Primary and Perry High School have demonstrated exceptional outreach and accommodations for military families, focusing on the emotional challenges faced by children of deployed parents. This accolade inspires continued efforts in Augusta to foster a supportive community for military families.

Five Augusta Schools Honored with the Military Flagship Award for Their Support of Military Families

Augusta is buzzing with excitement as five local schools have recently been recognized by the Georgia Department of Education with the prestigious 2024-2025 Military Flagship Award. This accolade is specifically given to schools that go above and beyond in providing support to military students and their families. With approximately 1,700 students in Houston County that have parents serving in the military, this recognition highlights the critical need for support systems in place, especially during deployments.

Schools Recognized for Exceptional Service

The schools that proudly wore the badge of honor this year are:

David Perdue Primary School
Pearl Stephens Elementary School
Perry High School
Quail Run Elementary School

These institutions were acknowledged not just for their exceptional academic programs but for their active outreach to military families. They work diligently to identify and accommodate the unique needs of these families, ensuring they feel welcomed and supported even when times are tough.

Understanding the Emotional Impact of Deployments

To shed light on the emotional challenges faced by military families, Jessica Declet, a parent of a military child, shared her heartfelt experiences. Her daughter Alana, like many children of military personnel, has to navigate the complexities that arise when her parent is deployed. Schools play a crucial role in easing that burden, providing counseling services, and offering special activities designed specifically for military students during these challenging times.

Leadership Skills for Military Families

At the helm of David Perdue Primary School is Principal Kathy Gibbs, whose dedication to fostering an environment that nurtures military students is evident. She firmly believes in creating opportunities for students to develop leadership skills, which is especially vital for children from military backgrounds. This leadership training not only bolsters the students’ confidence but also prepares them for future challenges.

A Heartwarming Ceremony

In a touching display of unity, Alana Declet recently participated in a ceremony where she recited the Pledge of Allegiance alongside her father shortly before his deployment. Events like these serve to strengthen the bond between military families and their community. They remind everyone that while a parent serves the nation, the family left behind receives love and support from those around them.

The Importance of Support

The Military Flagship Award captures not just a moment of recognition but emphasizes the larger mission of caring for military children. Parents can serve confidently when they know their children are being nurtured by staff members who genuinely understand their challenges and are willing to lend a helping hand. Such support allows military families to focus on their commitments, knowing their children are in good hands.

As Augusta continues to shine in its commitment to supporting military families, the recognition of these five schools serves to inspire others. They set the bar high, proving that with community effort, compassionate outreach, and a little extra attention, we can all make a tangible difference in the lives of those who serve our country.

Here’s to continuing the tradition of support for military families in Augusta, ensuring their children find comfort, community, and confidence at school every single day!