Indian Trail Elementary has been recognized by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce for its support of military-connected students, according to an April 23 announcement. With this achievement, all four buildings in Canal Winchester Local Schools now hold the Purple Star School designation.
The recognition highlights efforts by the district to meet the needs of students from military families, a group that often faces unique challenges due to frequent relocations and transitions. The Purple Star status is awarded to schools that identify and support these students through specific requirements, such as appointing a trained staff liaison.
Superintendent Kiya Hunt said, “The Purple Star designations of our school buildings are a direct reflection of the care and dedication our staff puts into understanding and meeting the unique needs of every student. We are proud of our staff for putting students at the center of everything we do, and going above and beyond to help them be successful at school.”
Canal Winchester High School and Canal Winchester Middle School renewed their designations as part of the Purple Star Schools Class of 2026. At each building in Canal Winchester Local Schools, a military family liaison coordinates activities like student breakfasts, spirit weeks for military children, Veterans Day events, and signing days for enlisting students. Dr. Tiffany Kloeppel, principal at Indian Trail Elementary, said: “At Indian Trail, we focus on helping every student feel connected and supported from the moment they walk through our doors. For our military-connected students, that sense of belonging is especially important during times of transition. We want every military-connected student to know they are seen, supported, and an important part of our school community.”
The district maintains four buildings—including Indian Trail Elementary’s recent expansion—and operates within Ohio’s public education system according to its official website. It offers free breakfast and lunch through the Community Eligibility Program according to its official website, supports participation in 14 sports according to its official website, promotes community belonging according to its official website, earned Heart Safe School designation via Project ADAM Ohio according to its official website, serves kindergarten through grade twelve across four schools with comprehensive learning programs according to its official website, provides free meals districtwide according to its official website, fosters a welcoming environment according to its official website, encourages community involvement according to its official website, and holds a four-star rating from state education authorities according to its official website.
The Purple Star distinction is valid for three years before renewal. Indian Trail earned this status for the first time in 2026; both Canal Winchester High School and Middle School renewed their designations as part of this year’s class while Winchester Trail Elementary last renewed in 2025.
