Shortridge High School is one of the first schools in the state to receive the distinguished Indiana Purple Star School designation by the Indiana Department of Education. This designation honors schools that have displayed a significant commitment to service members, veterans, students and families connected to our nation’s military.
The program helps military families discover schools that understand the unique educational hurdles their families face. IPS offers a wide variety of learning options for the community, including Shortridge High School, with a specific focus centered on service. The Purple Star School program allows Shortridge to be an ambassador for the district on an international level via military installations worldwide.
“It is exciting to know the Indiana Department of Education selected Shortridge to be among the first Indiana schools included in this national initiative. It helps validate what we have always believed – our school and our district is committed to all the diverse needs of our entire community, said Principal Dennis Thomas, Shortridge High School.
“Our staff is comprised of several members who have firsthand experience with military life. For those reasons, we felt the Purple Star School application was a great opportunity,” said Lt Col (ret) Ron Crane, Shortridge JROTC. “As we honor our veterans, we commit ourselves to upholding our shared vision to support students to achieve academic success and become active and engaged citizens who work for the greater good of society.”
Many aspects of the school’s history are connected to the military starting with the school’s mascot, the Blue Devils. This originates from “les Diables Bleus,” French soldiers who fought in World War I. After the United States entered the war, those same Blue Devils toured this country helping to raise awareness and money for WW1 efforts.
Learn more about Shortridge High School’s commitment to our nation’s military HERE.
Learn more about the Purple Star Designation HERE.