Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

Michigan Senate Bill SB0211

Introduced
4/16/25  

Caption

Education: other; purple star school program; create. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1138a.

Impact

The creation of the Purple Star Program is intended to facilitate a better transition experience for students who are connected to military families. This program includes several key components: designating a military liaison within schools, maintaining an informative web presence about resources for military-connected pupils, and implementing programs that aid in students' transitions. Schools will have the autonomy to create initiatives and support mechanisms that benefit these students, potentially increasing their academic performance and social integration.

Summary

Senate Bill 211, also known as the Purple Star Program Bill, seeks to amend the 1976 PA 451, also known as the Revised School Code, by incorporating a specialized program designed to support military-connected pupils in public schools across Michigan. The bill mandates the establishment of a Purple Star Program by January 1, 2026, which aims to recognize schools that go above and beyond in providing support for children of military families. Schools wishing to receive this designation must apply and demonstrate adherence to defined criteria.

Contention

Despite the benefits outlined, there may be concerns regarding the implementation of the program. Critics might argue about the feasibility of schools meeting the outlined requirements and the potential strain on resources. Discussions could also arise regarding what constitutes adequate support for military-connected pupils and how effectively schools can serve this demographic while balancing the needs of other students. Furthermore, ensuring that staff receive proper training to assist military-connected pupils may raise questions around funding and professional development resources.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MI HB4027

Education: other; purple star school program; create. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1138a.

MI HB4157

Education: attendance; excused absence from public school for the purpose of sounding "Taps" at a military honor funeral for a deceased veteran; provide for. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1138a.

MI SB0500

Education: meals; free school lunch and breakfast program; create. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1271. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5042'23

MI HB4089

Education: safety; school safety and mental health commission; create. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1308h.

MI HB5649

Education: curriculum; public high schools to offer a computer science course; require. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1166c.

MI SB0856

Education: curriculum; public high schools to offer a computer science course; require. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1166c.

MI SB0568

Education: other; certain requirements for the approval of teacher preparation institutions; create. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1531e.

MI HB5932

Education: other; certain requirements for the approval of teacher preparation institutions; create. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1531e.

MI SB0945

Education: public school academies; educational management organizations; subject to same bidding laws as public schools. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1267a.

MI HB5329

Education: all other employees; certain requirements related to seizure awareness; provide for. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1179c.

Similar Bills

CA SB614

California Military Department Support Fund activities.

CA AB481

Law enforcement and state agencies: military equipment: funding, acquisition, and use.

TX HB3841

Relating to military duty of a conservator of a child in a suit affecting the parent-child relationship.

CA AB361

Military Department: support programs.

NJ SJR106

Designates April 14 of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Day" in NJ.

NJ AJR198

Designates April 14 of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Day" in NJ.

NJ SJR74

Designates month of April of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Month" in NJ; designates last full week of April of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Week" in NJ.

NJ AJR109

Designates month of April of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Month" in NJ; designates last full week of April of each year as "Military Child Appreciation Week" in NJ.