Purple Star Readiness ECHO – Alabama

Purple Star School designation is awarded at the state level, and criteria for the award varies from state to state. MCEC is hosting this Purple Star Readiness Professional Learning Communities (PLC) cohort specific to Alabama Purple Star Designation.

MCEC has partnered with the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Department and Project ECHO® to host PLCs as a NEW way for educators to collaborate. Participants identify potential solutions to common challenges related to Purple Star Programs. Our knowledge-sharing model brings together a network of peers and subject matter experts from multiple focus areas for a robust and holistic approach to support military-connected students.

Who should join the cohort?

School professionals who implement the purple star school programs at their location (school or district representatives). Campus liaisons are encouraged to join!

Dates:

First Tuesday of each month, September 2023 - May 2024, from 9:00–10:00 a.m. CST

How is it different?

This continuous cycle of learning, mentoring, and peer support makes ECHO unique, with lasting impact far beyond that of a webinar or an e-learning course. During an ECHO session, participants are presented with a 15-20 minute lesson on best practices, followed by a real case or situation for discussion. Through a structured process, participants have an opportunity to learn from one another on the topic.

Engage with a community of peers and subject matter experts to explore topics like: 

• Building Your Team and Creating Buy-In
  Designate staff and a point of contact who advocate for military-connected students at the school or district level.
• Recognition Events for Military-Connected Students and Families
  Organize events or celebrations to unify school staff and the community in supporting military-connected students and families.
• Peer-Led Student Transition Programs
  Establish or sustain a group of peer student leaders trained to support incoming military-connected students and help them adjust to their new school environment.
• Military Family Webpages
  Provide a dedicated webpage for military-connected students and families with centralized information on school or district policies, as well as community resources.
• Successful Application and Implementation 
  Review your state application, step-by-step with personalized support throughout the process of applying and implementing.
• Coordinating Successful Welcome and Exit Transitions
  Identify and utilize partner resources to help prepare welcome and exit information for students and families to assist them with school transitions.
• Strategies to Identify Military-Connected Students and Inform Stakeholders
  Describe the importance of and evaluate your existing process for identifying military-connected students and discuss potential improvements.

The expectation for our ECHO is all teach and all learn through collaboration and interaction, so come prepared to network, share, ask questions, and engage! Participants learn from each other as knowledge is tested and refined through a local lens. 

These MCEC Purple Star Readiness ECHO are made possible by funding through the Alabama State Department of Education State Fund.

Questions or trouble registering?

Contact PD@MilitaryChild.org