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Henrico County Public Schools

The Right to Achieve. The Support to Succeed.

Military Connected Families

Virginia Purple Star Designation Program

The Purple Star designation is awarded to military-friendly schools that have demonstrated their commitment to students and families connected to our nation's military. Purple-Star schools have implemented mechanisms to meet the educational, social and emotional needs military-connected students face as they transition to new schools or during a family member's deployment.

HCPS Purple Star Designations
Ward Elementary School 
(2024-2025)

Military-Connected Families

Welcome to Henrico County Public Schools, where every student and family is valued and celebrated, including those from our nation's military community.

We're thrilled to welcome all new and returning military-connected families to our school division. Whether you're joining us at any time throughout the year, please know that you are an integral part of our school family.

Moving can be a challenge, but we're here to make your transition as smooth and welcoming as possible. Whether you're here for a short time or making Henrico County your new home, our schools and support staff are dedicated to ensuring you feel supported and connected every step of the way.

Planning your arrival to HCPS

START HERE: Registering/Enrolling Your Student in Henrico County Public Schools

Quick links:

Please note:

Code of Virginia § 22.1-270 requires that a student is immunized and receives a comprehensive physical examination before entering for the first time any public kindergarten or elementary school in a school division. The Code of Virginia § 22.1-360 and the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children allow for active duty military dependent children to be enrolled without documentation of immunizations; however, documentation must be provided within 30 days of enrollment. The Compact does not waive the physical examination requirement for these children.

Preparing your move from HCPS:

A teacher assists young children sitting around a table in a bright classroom.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to notify your child’s school at least one week in advance to begin the withdrawal process by contacting the school’s registrar.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to obtain a hard-copy record to assist with registering in the next location.

Academic Planning for Military Families

HCPS offers a variety of academic programs and services at all grade levels, including elementary, such as gifted programs, special education and more. Visit the Elementary School Education page at henricoschools for more information about the division’s elementary school programs. For comprehensive information about HCPS secondary (middle and high school) programs, including specialty centers, graduation requirements, diploma options and advanced academic programming, the Planning Guide is a great place to start.

Home Instruction

The General Assembly of Virginia permits parents and guardians to provide home instruction to their children as an acceptable alternative to compulsory school attendance. Parents or guardians must submit a notice of intent to HCPS to provide home instruction. The intent form and more information about home instruction is available on the Henrico Schools Home School page.

Special Needs Navigation and Parental Rights

HCPS’ Department of Exceptional Education is prepared to assist military-connected families and students through the school division's special education process.

HCPS’ Family and Educator Resource Center provides information, support, resources and training opportunities for parents, guardians and caregivers of students with disabilities.

Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps Exceptional Family Member Program managers are equipped to provide information, resources, skills and support to help military families with special needs navigate their systems of care.

Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunities for Military Families

The Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children was formed to help ease the transitions of military students and families during frequent moves and deployments. Virginia is a proud member of the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children.

Other Important Links