HUSD News Stories

The Higley Unified School District (HUSD) is celebrating a significant achievement as three of its schools—Chaparral Elementary School, Sossaman Middle School, and Cooley Middle School—have been awarded the Arizona Purple Star School (AZPSS) designation. This recognition is given to schools that demonstrate a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by military families and provide exceptional support to military-connected students. 

The Arizona Purple Star School designation is awarded based on several criteria including the presence of a dedicated Point of Contact (POC) for military families, staff training on the needs of military-connected students, and the implementation of programs and activities that support these students. Schools must also demonstrate a commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment through various patriotic events and initiatives. 

Chaparral Elementary School, Sossaman Middle School, and Cooley Middle School have all excelled in meeting these criteria. Each school has appointed a POC to assist military families and ensure staff are equipped with strategies to support them. Additionally, these schools offer peer-to-peer mentoring programs, welcome activities for new students, and a calendar of patriotic events to honor military families and veterans. 

Chaparral Elementary School's initiatives include a Student Leader Welcome Wagon, an ongoing Wall of Honor, and an Annual Veteran's Appreciation Breakfast. Sossaman Middle School offers peer-to-peer mentoring through its Purple Up Club and hosts events such as Red, White, and Blue Spirit Days and a Remembrance Ceremony. Cooley Middle School integrates its peer-to-peer mentoring program with the Where Everyone Belongs (W.E.B.) initiative and organizes events like a Veteran's Day Breakfast and Assembly. 

The Arizona Purple Star School designation is a testament to the dedication of these schools to support military families and create a nurturing educational environment. For more information on programs at each school visit the Arizona Purple Star School program pages on their websites.