![Petal Elementary School Designated as a Military STAR School]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1750185936/petalschoolscom/fss0xxbgne1wpcnkzs3y/PressReleaseThumbnail_10.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1750185936/petalschoolscom/fss0xxbgne1wpcnkzs3y/PressReleaseThumbnail_10.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1750185936/petalschoolscom/fss0xxbgne1wpcnkzs3y/PressReleaseThumbnail_10.png","width":800}])
Petal Elementary School Designated as a Military STAR School
Media Contact
Abi Douglas-Lott, Communications Manager
601.545.3002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 20, 2025
PETAL, Miss. – Petal Elementary School has been officially recognized as a Military STAR School by the Mississippi Department of Education, highlighting the school’s strong commitment to supporting military-connected students and families. This designation makes Petal Elementary the second school in the Petal School District to earn this honor, joining Petal Primary School, which received this designation during the 2024-25 school year.
The Military STAR (Support To All Relatives) designation is awarded to schools that meet rigorous criteria to provide stability, connection, and support for students whose parents or guardians serve in the military.
To earn this distinction, Petal Elementary submitted evidence of intentional practices designed to support military-connected students and families. This included completion of MIC3 training by the school’s Military Point of Contact, Whitney Stewart; annual events such as Veterans Day and Purple Up Day; and a student-led mentorship program to help new military-connected students transition smoothly. The school also collaborates with staff at Camp Shelby, maintains an updated Military Families section on its website, and provides annual professional development for staff focused on meeting the unique needs of military families.
“We are incredibly Panther Proud that Petal Elementary School received the Military STAR School designation,” said Dr. Matt Dillon, superintendent of schools. “This honor reflects the intentional work of our dedicated staff to ensure military-connected students feel welcomed, supported, and valued from the moment they walk through our doors. We’re equally proud that both Petal Elementary and Petal Primary are leading the way in this important work. We are so grateful for the families that serve our country.”
The Military STAR School designation is valid for two school years and reinforces the district’s broader commitment to creating a supportive environment for all students, especially those experiencing frequent transitions due to military service.
For more information about the Military STAR School Program, visit https://mdek12.org/jrotc/militarystarschool/.
# # #