Anderson Grove Elementary School marked Purple Up Day with a vibrant morning welcome, as service members from Offutt Air Force Base joined school staff to greet arriving students with high energy, smiles, and high fives. The spirited arrival celebration set an uplifting tone for the day and gave students a tangible reminder that their school community stands behind them.

The event reflects Anderson Grove's ongoing commitment as a designated Purple Star School — a recognition held by every school in Papillion La Vista Community Schools. The Purple Star designation signifies that a school meets specific criteria for supporting military-connected students and their families, including maintaining dedicated staff liaisons, providing transition resources, and fostering a welcoming environment for those who may have experienced frequent moves or extended family deployments.

Purple Up Day, observed each April as part of the Month of the Military Child, invites communities nationwide to wear purple and celebrate the unique strengths and sacrifices of children in military families. For PLCS, the day is one of many touchpoints throughout the year when schools actively honor these students — from special breakfasts and classroom activities to partnerships with Offutt personnel that bring the military community directly into schools. Anderson Grove's high-five welcome line was a small but meaningful gesture in that larger, year-round commitment.