SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. - BridgeValley Community and Technical College is proud to announce that its early college public charter high school, Workforce INitiave (WIN) Academy, has earned the esteemed Purple Star Award as part of the 5^th Class, from the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) and the Common Ground Partnership. This recognition celebrates schools and programs that demonstrate a strong and ongoing commitment to supporting military-connected students and their families.

The Common Ground Partnership is a statewide collaboration among military, government, and community organizations dedicated to student success. While supporting all students, the partnership places special emphasis on military-connected students who often face unique challenges due to frequent relocations and deployments. The partnership acknowledges the vital role schools play in ensuring that students and their families are informed about the outstanding resources available to them.

BridgeValley’s WIN Academy provides high school juniors and seniors with the opportunity to earn both college credit and workforce credentials, offering a unique, career-focused educational experience. The program is designed to be flexible, catering to diverse life situations, including the specific challenges faced by military families. By offering tailored, student-centered learning, WIN Academy equips students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workforce while ensuring academic and personal growth.

“We are honored that WIN Academy has received the Purple Star Award,” said Dr. Casey K. Sacks, President of BridgeValley Community and Technical College. “Our team is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for military families, and this recognition reinforces the importance of that work. We are proud to stand with and support the families who serve our country.”

As part of the Purple Star Award, WIN Academy remains committed to participating in Purple Up Day each April and continues to engage with Military Family Points of Contact to share professional development opportunities, best practices, and supportive programs across the state. With this award, WIN Academy proudly reaffirms its mission to provide a nurturing and adaptive environment where military families can thrive both academically and personally.

A full list of 2024–2027 Purple Star Award recipients and the official announcement video can be found on the Common Ground Partnership’s website.