Honoring the courage and resiliency of military-connected children.
Every April, the Department of Defense Education Activity and school systems nationwide honor military-connected families by celebrating "Month of the Military Child," or "Purple Up Month." The color purple symbolizes military children across all branches as a combination of:
You may review this year's governor proclamation recognizing April as the month of the military child.
Activities for Purple Up Month in 2026
Along with our Common Ground Partners, the WVDE encourages schools to select one day during April to celebrate Purple Up Day. This event may take place on the state-recognized date or another date which best aligns with the school's scheduled activities. Schools may also choose to participate in Spirit Week, which integrates Purple Up day as one of five themed activities throughout an entire week.
Spirit Week Celebrations
All schools are encouraged to participate in Spirit Week. Download the West Virginia Spirit Week Poster [PDF], display it in your school, and communicate with students, parents, and guardians.
Theme
Date
Activity
Military Monday
April 20
Wear clothing showing pride for your favorite branch of the United States military.
Crazy Camo Day
April 21
Wear clothing featuring different camouflage patterns.
Read, White, and Blue Day
April 22
Wear clothing that represents the colors of the United States flag.
Purple Up Day
April 23
Join communities across our state and nation in honoring military-connected children by wearing purple (a mix of all military branch colors) and engage in activities celebrating their strength and resiliency.