Only School in Collier County Recognized for Exceptional Support of Military Families
NAPLES, Florida — Optima Academy Online (OAO), a leader in virtual, classically aligned education, is proud to announce it has earned the distinguished Purple Star School designation. This honor recognizes OAO’s commitment to supporting military-connected students and families through strong transition resources, dedicated staff training, and a welcoming school culture.
With this designation, Optima Academy Online becomes the only school in Collier County, Florida, to receive Purple Star recognition.
“We are deeply honored to be named a Purple Star School,” said Dr. Kim Abel, Head of School at Optima Academy Online. “Military families face unique challenges, and we believe they deserve stability, flexibility, and community as they navigate frequent moves or parental deployments. This recognition reflects our team’s dedication to serving these families with empathy, excellence, and consistent support.”
To earn the Purple Star designation, schools must meet a rigorous set of standards focused on the needs of military-connected students. Optima Academy Online demonstrated excellence through:
- A designated military family liaison to assist with transitions and academic planning
- Staff training designed to better understand and support military-connected learners
- Resources that help families navigate enrollment, scholarship options, and portability
- School-wide initiatives that promote belonging and celebrate the service of military families
- Flexible learning structures that allow continuity of education regardless of duty station changes
“As a fully online, accredited school, OAO is uniquely positioned to support students wherever military life takes them,” said Adam Mangana, CEO of OptimaEd. “Our commitment to academic excellence and character formation pairs naturally with the service-centered values of military families. We’re proud to stand with them.”
The Purple Star designation reinforces Optima Academy Online’s mission to provide an exceptional, accessible education to students across Florida while offering meaningful support to families who serve.
