Memo Text
Blue Star Families is the nation's largest 501(c)(3)
nonprofit organization created by and for military and veteran families.
Through its network of families, volunteers, and community partners, the
organization works to connect military and veteran families with local communities,
support families through the challenges of frequent relocations, and strengthen
military family well-being.
Blue Star Families invites school districts nationwide to
welcome and recognize military-connected students and families by participating
in Blue Star Welcome Week, September 26 through October 4, 2026.
Information about the initiative is available on the Blue Star Welcome Week
event page. Participating school districts may plan and conduct activities that
highlight and support military-connected students and their families while
fostering meaningful connections with the broader school community.
Several print resources to assist with planning are
attached. Additional materials and ideas are available on the Blue Star Welcome
Week resources page.
School districts are encouraged to submit information about
their Blue Star Welcome Week activities for inclusion in the annual report of
the Arkansas Council for Military Children to the Governor, General
Assembly, and State Board of Education. Event information may be submitted
using this form. When submitting photographs that include legal minors,
districts must also provide appropriate photo release documentation.
Schools that have earned, or are pursuing, Purple
Star School designation may use their Blue Star Welcome Week activities to
satisfy the military recognition event component of the program.