Oakvale School is receiving statewide recognition for its commitment to supporting military members and military-connected families.

The West Virginia Department of Education highlighted Oakvale in the September 2026 edition of the Purple Star Informer as an example of best practices among West Virginia Purple Star Schools. The feature showcases Oakvale’s Adopt a Brigade program, developed by Principal Dr. LaCosta Hodges.

Through the program, Oakvale students and staff have adopted members of the West Virginia National Guard’s 111th Engineer Brigade during their deployment. Each student is assigned a soldier and serves as a pen pal, writing letters and sending care packages throughout the deployment.

The program goes beyond supporting the soldiers. It also provides meaningful learning opportunities for Oakvale students. Through their connection with the brigade, students learn about military life, geography, climate, writing, art, service, gratitude, and the sacrifices made by military members and their families. The project involves the entire Oakvale School community.

WVDE visited Oakvale in April as the school launched the program and noted that Adopt a Brigade creates connections among the school, military families in the community, and service members overseas. WVDE recognized the program for its ability to encourage those serving our country, enhance classroom instruction, and support military-connected students.

We are incredibly proud of Dr. Hodges and the Oakvale School students and staff for representing Mercer County Public Schools and demonstrating how our schools can combine learning, service, and community in such a meaningful way.

Congratulations, Oakvale School!

Full article may be found here: https://mailchi.mp/749bea008500/purple-star-informer-18176947?e=7fe29401a6