Three Baldwin County schools added to Alabama Purple Star program

At its July 15, 2025, work session, the Baldwin County Public Schools board recognized three schools that earned the Alabama Purple Star designation for supporting military-connected students. Chaz, a district staff member handling accommodations, announced the additions and described the program’s purpose.

The Purple Star Award “recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and families connected to our nation's military,” Chaz said. He explained the program is designed to set standards and publicly designate schools that ease transitions for highly mobile military students.

Misty Wilkinson, principal of Stonebridge Elementary, and Dr. Shannon Smith, principal of Spanish Fort High School, were introduced at the meeting. Gina Gibson, identified in the meeting as representing Florence b Mathis, was listed as earning the recognition but was not able to attend the session.

The board chair and staff briefly discussed prior Purple Star recognitions in the Daphne feeder pattern and noted the district plans to display the special Purple Star recognition at each school that earned it.

No formal action or vote on the recognitions was recorded in the work session minutes; the items were presented as commendations.

The session adjourned at 5:30 p.m.; the board noted the Purple Star recognitions as part of routine commendations and said they will proceed with public acknowledgement at the schools.