LITTLE ROCK — The Arkansas Council for Military Children is pleased to announce the creation of the Outstanding Military Scholar Award. This new award program, which will launch in 2025, will recognize one graduating senior who is the dependent of a current or former member of the armed forces or reserves.
In addition to demonstrating academic achievement, participation in extracurricular activities, leadership, and community service learning, eligible students must also attend a public or private school that is recognized by the council as a Purple Star School for its commitment to supporting students whose families are service members.
The Arkansas council is comprised of education and military representatives and joins all 50 states in reducing educational barriers for children of military families. An ADE representative serves as chair of the council and coordinates all meetings and activities.
“April is recognized as Month of the Military Child in honor of the sacrifices children of military families make,” Arkansas Department of Education Secretary Jacob Oliva said. “These students and their families deserve our unwavering support as they move to Arkansas, and we are pleased to be a part of recognizing remarkable students who excel despite transitions that may occur every few years.”
This September, the council will host a series of online information sessions for parents and educators who want to learn more about the award program. Nominations for the award will open next January. The council will then select four finalists, with the winner announced in April 2025.
In addition to creating this award, the council will establish a student advisory group this fall that will be comprised of up to five juniors and seniors who will serve as non-voting advisors to the council. The council will begin accepting applications for the advisory group this month.
To learn more about the council, visit https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/legal/military-families--veterans/the-arkansas-council-for-military-children.