About Military Family and the Purple Star Program:

What is the Purple Star Program?

  • Texas recognition for schools that support military-connected students and families.

  • Demonstrates commitment to transition support, family engagement, and student success.

  • Encourages campuses to build systems that help students thrive.

Why the Purple Star Program Matters?

  • Military students often change schools multiple times.

  • Moves can disrupt academics, friendships, and activities.

  • Deployments and reunifications can create emotional stress.

  • Strong campus support improves belonging and achievement.

Who are Military-Connected Students?

  • Active duty military families

  • National Guard families

  • Reserve families

  • Veteran families

  • Gold Star families

Core Texas Requirements

  1. Designated Campus Liaison: Mr. D. Bumpas, 1st Sgt Medina & Chief Ketchmark

  2. Military Family Resources/Webpage: HERO Military Program

  3. Transition Support Program: Provided through Hanks HS Counseling Dept for new Students

  4. Military Recognition Activity/Event: Veterans Day Activities, Purple Up Month, April Activities for   Military Connected Students

Campus Liaison Roles

  • Primary point of contact for families—Counseling Center & 1st Sgt Medina

  • Assist with enrollment and transitions-- Counseling Center & 1st Sgt Medina

  • Connect families to resources– JROTC outreach programs and activities

  • Help monitor support needs-- Counseling Center & 1st Sgt Medina

Transition Support for Military Family Students

  • Student ambassador program

  • New student tours

  • Lunch buddy system

  • Counselor check-ins

  • Orientation packet for families

  • Enrollment guidance

  • Counseling supports

  • Academic planning resources

  • Community and military family information

Schoolwide Recognition

  • Purple Up Day - Month of April - Every Friday

  • Month of the Military Child - April 2026

  • Veterans Day activities - Honored Veterans and Families with Lunch

  • Family appreciation events - Veterans Day and Military Student Cookout

  • Student recognition opportunities - Month of Military Child

Campus Contacts and Role:

  • Official Campus Liaison: D. Bumpas:

  • Hanks Counseling Center provides

    • Counseling Support

    • Academic Planning Resource

    • Enrollment Guidance

  • Community and Military Family Link:

Our Mission at J. M. Hanks High School:
J.M. Hanks staff believes Every Military-Connected Student deserves a Smooth Transition, Strong Support, and a Sense of Belonging