Chet F. Harritt and PRIDE Academy Receive Purple Star Designation
Two Santee School District Schools, Chet F. Harritt and PRIDE Academy, have been awarded a Purple Star School Designation by the California Department of Education.
“Military-connected students face unique challenges, including frequent relocations and transitions. By designating our schools as Purple Star Schools, we affirm our commitment to understanding and addressing these challenges,” said District Superintendent, Dr. Kristin Baranski. “These schools will serve as a beacon of support, demonstrating our dedication to fostering a sense of belonging and community for our military families.”
San Diego County leads the state in military-friendly schools, representing about half of all the schools designated. The California Purple Star School Designation Program (Purple Star Program) seeks to reduce the burden on military-connected students and their families by articulating the most critical transition supports available. The Purple Star Program is a way to publicly recognize and designate schools that are committed and best equipped to meet the unique needs of these students and their families.
“Our school proudly serves many military families, who often encounter unique challenges related to transitions and relocations,” said Chet F. Harritt Principal, Ted Hooks. “It is our mission to ensure these students feel safe, valued, and connected within our school community.”
“[At PRIDE Academy] We have already implemented several initiatives aimed at supporting our military-connected families... This recognition will enable us to expand our outreach and implement additional programs that directly benefit our military families,” said PRIDE Academy Principal, Dr. Kristen Bonser.
Chet F. Harritt and PRIDE Academy were among 83 schools announced as a 2025 California Purple Star School by State Superintendent for Public Instruction Tony Thurmond.
To learn more about the programs Santee School District provides for military families, visit santeesd.net/militaryfamilies.
For a full list of Purple Star schools, visit the California Department of Education Purple Star Designation website. https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/pf/mc/capurplestar.asp