If you’ve ever had a family member in the military then you understand the hardships the families go through every time they are deployed or sent out into the field of work.
A program called Military Connected Youth is run at Barberton High School with the goal of assisting military children of immediate family members as they grow. This program is a way to show that there are other students in your school who are experiencing the same things as they are and can be there to support one another; it’s a way to assist kids to feel a part of the military community. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming, stressful, or even lonely and so it’s important to remember that you have someone there to support you. The program is also very dedicated to helping its students through these hardships and understands that families could be struggling astronomically and is a way for us to help one another through these experiences.
Usually, meetings are held once a month and it’s a way for these kids to talk, interact with one another, make lasting connections, and share a nice meal together.
In addition, “as of April 8, 2022, Barberton High School has been selected as a Purple Star School. The Purple Star Award recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and families connected to our nation’s military. Schools that earn the award will receive a special Purple Star recognition to display on site,” according to the Ohio Department of Education.
I myself am a member of the military-connected youth program and am glad to say that I am thankful for it. It’s helped me to see all the others that understand my situation as a daughter of an active-duty parent and the struggles of being separated.
Fantastic work on the new site!