The military children of Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield attend nearly a dozen different school districts throughout Coastal Georgia, and this year three schools stood out amongst the rest to earn the Georgia Military Flagship School award.

Long County’s Long County High School and Smiley Elementary School both received their banners during ceremonies Monday, April 20, and McAllister Elementary School is the first of Bryan County Schools to receive their banner Thursday, April 23.

“This award is competitive, which means it requires intentional effort, community and collaboration,” said Rachale LaVoie, military student and family specialist with the Georgia Department of Education. “It is about creating that culture that is conducive to military families and knowing that you’re walking into a school that knows what you’re dealing with is a big deal.”

Appointed by the Georgia Department of Education, the Military Flagship Award recognizes Georgia schools which go above and beyond to provide a supportive environment accommodating the unique needs of military- connected students and families.