Every November, Shadow Ridge High School joins schools across the nation in honoring Military Family Awareness Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the strength, resilience, and sacrifices of families connected to the U.S. Armed Forces. As a Purple Star School, Shadow Ridge takes pride in supporting students whose family members serve or have served in the military.
Counselor Dr. Hannah Small believes this month is about reflection and gratitude.
“To me, it’s a time for us to reflect, recognize, and appreciate all our military families here at Shadow Ridge. It’s important to honor the support, efforts, and sacrifices that they make,” she said.
According to Dr. Small, one of the biggest challenges military families face is constant relocation.
“They move all the time, people don’t always realize how tough that can be especially when parents get deployed and have to be away from home. The holidays can be particularly hard for students who are missing a family member,” she explained.
Frequent moves can also affect academics.
“Different states have different graduation requirements and class expectations. That can be really tough for students, especially in high school. Even switching schools midyear means adjusting to new teachers and learning styles,” Dr. Small acknowledged.
Despite these challenges, military families show remarkable strength. Dr. Small has seen many students thrive by getting involved on campus.
Dr. Small believes, “When students put themselves out there and join clubs, sports, or ROTC, it’s really good to see, it shows their resilience. Asking for help and using the resources available is another big sign of strength.”
She also praised the resources Shadow Ridge offers to support these students.
“As a Purple Star School, we work hard to maintain programs that help military families. We have counselors, our social worker Mr. Perkins, and teachers who understand and care,” she noted.
Dr. Small’s message to all military families is simple but powerful: “Reach out. If you’re struggling or need help, we have so many resources. Even if we don’t have the answer right away, we’ll find someone who does.”
Through awareness, compassion, and action, Shadow Ridge continues to honor the families who stand behind America’s heroes.
