Newton is just one of seven school districts across the state to have schools named inaugural Iowa Purple Star Schools. The designation from the Iowa Department of Education was announced on Thursday, and pertains to Berg Middle School and Newton High School. Superintendent Tom Messinger accepted the district’s official award, which recognizes schools that demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting students and families connected to military service. Schools that qualify receive the Purple Star designation for three years. Newton’s middle school and high school are among 17 schools statewide to receive this honor. On the Newton School District’s website, under Student Services, there is a Purple Star School heading that links you to more information, and a YouTube video showing U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Cody Richards’ surprise visit to Berg Middle School to see his two sons following a 9-month deployment to an air base in Romania.
“I led these guys on to believe that I wouldn’t be back for another three weeks because I wanted to try and surprise them. I haven’t seen them since Thanksgiving of last year.”
The Iowa Purple Star School Program was established following the passage of Senate File 275, signed into law by Governor Reynolds in 2025. To earn the designation, schools must appoint a staff member as a military liaison, maintain a dedicated web page with resources for military-connected families, host programs or events that build community awareness, and provide professional development for staff.
