Edwards celebrates Month of the Military Child; Record number of community schools receive Purple Star designation

  • Published
  • By Chase Kohler
  • 412th Test Wing Public Affairs Office
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  

More than 1.6 million military children reside in the United States, many of whom demonstrate resilience while navigating unique challenges tied to their parents’ service. To honor and raise awareness of military youth, April is recognized as the Month of the Military Child across the Defense Department.

Edwards operates as a remote installation in the Mojave Desert, and the challenges military children face can be compounded by distance. However, that also creates opportunity for the Muroc Joint Unified School District, Team Edwards, and the surrounding community to collaborate.

Before spring break, multiple events on Edwards brought music, food and fun to celebrate the positive experiences military children can have throughout their adolescence. From concerts to photo booths, jog-a-thons to popcorn during recess, activities appealed to every personality, all cloaked in purple, the official color of the month.

Edwards and Operating Location Plant 42 spans three Southern California counties, with more than 23,000 Airmen, civilians and contractors spread across a wide area. The support and patriotism within the communities of Los Angeles, Kern and San Bernardino counties is reflected by the schools. As of 2025, 11 schools have formally received the Purple Star Designation, a local record.

Purple Star Schools demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting military-connected students and their families. The program is designed to help schools address the unique challenges these students face during transitions and to foster a welcoming environment. Certification qualifications can be rigorous, including a student-transition team for incoming military families, special faculty training, and dedicated web and on-site resources for students who frequently relocate due to their parents’ service.

"Having several of these schools in our area shows a community-wide dedication to supporting this population of students and their families," said Rebecca Balkenbush, the school liaison program manager for Edwards and a military spouse. "With so many schools committing to creating military-friendly campuses, service members can focus on their mission without worrying about disruptions to their children’s education. When military families know their children will receive consistent support, they experience less stress and higher rates of readiness."

With dedicated support and unique hands-on offerings for students, the Edwards community strives to ensure local youth thrive, no matter where life takes them.