April is the Month of the Military Child, and across Bay District Schools, campuses are coming together to recognize and celebrate the resilience, strength, and sacrifices of our military-connected students. As one of only five Purple Star Districts in Florida, BDS is proud to lead the way in supporting military families and ensuring their children feel seen, valued, and supported in every classroom.
For Superintendent Mark McQueen, this month holds special meaning. A retired Major General who served 39 years in the U.S. Army, he understands firsthand the unique challenges military children face, from frequent moves to time apart during deployments. That perspective continues to shape the district’s commitment to creating a supportive environment for every military-connected student who walks through our doors.
Throughout April, each BDS school will honor one military-connected student, recognizing their strength and the important role they play in our school communities. The district will also celebrate these students and their families during the April 14 School Board Meeting, where a resolution will be read and a military family representing each local installation will be recognized.
Schools across the district have planned meaningful and engaging events to celebrate throughout the month, with many activities centered around Purple Up Day on April 17. On this day, students, staff, and community members are encouraged to wear purple as a visible show of support for military children.
Several schools are hosting special events to bring families together and show appreciation in fun and memorable ways. On April 17th, Lucille Moore Elementary will host a breakfast with giveaways for military families, while Tyndall Academy has planned a full day of activities, including a flagpole ceremony, hot dog lunch, and an evening PurpleUp Night Carnival. Breakfast Point Academy will kick off the 17th with morning festivities featuring the school band, and Merritt Brown Middle School will offer a “Mock Deployment” experience to give students a glimpse into military life. Also on the 17th, Lynn Haven Elementary will host its popular “Purple Pancakes” breakfast, and Hutchison Beach Elementary will welcome military students and their families for a special breakfast in the media center.
At Tommy Smith Elementary, families can enjoy a cornhole event on April 17, followed by a “Touch-a-Truck” military-themed experience on April 24 in partnership with Naval Support Activity Panama City.
While these events provide opportunities to celebrate, the heart of this month lies in the daily support, encouragement, and appreciation shown to our military families across Bay District Schools. From classroom connections to campus-wide recognitions, our schools are committed to making every military child feel a sense of belonging.
As we celebrate throughout April, we encourage all staff to take part, whether by wearing purple on April 17, attending a school event, or simply taking a moment to recognize and uplift a military-connected student.
Together, we continue putting the “A” back in Bay through appreciation, awareness, and unwavering support for those who serve and the families who stand beside them.