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Military Family Support

Supporting Military Families

A collage of photos showing military personnel reuniting with their families.

A Purple Star School District

Oak Harbor Public Schools is a recipient of the Washington State Purple Star Award for 2026 and 2027. The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) and the Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA) presented Oak Harbor Public Schools (OHPS) with the Purple Star Award in its inaugural year, and we are proud to be recognized again for our commitment to our military-connected students and families.

Read about the 2026-2027 Award

Read About our Inaugural Purple Star Award

Oak Harbor is the proud home of Naval Air Station Whidbey Island
Military families in Oak Harbor are members of the largest naval installation in the Pacific Northwest. Oak Harbor Public Schools take great pride in educating the children of our parents in the armed forces. In fact, 40% of our students come from active military families and we understand what it takes to help military children be successful in the classroom. 

Successful transitions for new students
By partnering with our community leaders as #OneOakHarbor, we provide the resources children need during all stages of transition and deployment. We encourage you to contact your child’s school in advance to arrange a tour and discuss any transition concerns that your family may have. Our students are always very happy to show newcomers around, so ask about our new student welcome programs.

Resources During Difficult Times

When there are global violence and conflicts families may experience extended deployments and/or grief and concern about loved ones involved in the conflicts. Please use the resources on this page and reach out to your school if you need added support.

Navy partners in schools
Our schools are enriched by the ongoing work of our Navy volunteers who donate countless hours of service to support our students and schools. Our Navy partners volunteer in classrooms, beautify our grounds, encourage students at High-Five Fridays, and help us celebrate students during the Month of the Military Child. NASWI’s partnership with OHPS demonstrates the importance of community service and the spirit of #OneOakHarbor.

Military Support Contacts

Jaime Thompson
School Liaison Officer

NASWI.SL@us.navy.mil
360.257.6863

Kelly Scheese

Region School Liaison

Commander, Navy Region Northwest

Email: nrnw.sl@us.navy.mil

360.396.4860

Tina Sparks

Child and Youth Programs Director

Naval Air Station Whidbey Island

Email: christina.l.sparks2.naf@us.navy.mil

360.257.6423

Kathi Zellers – Oak Harbor Intermediate

Military & Family Life Counselor

360.643.7683

 

Codi Nuzzo – North Whidbey Middle School & Oak Harbor Elementary

Military & Family Life Counselor

571.598.9841

 

Kellie Johnsen – Oak Harbor High School & Hillcrest Elementary
Military & Family Life Counselor
571.977.8571

Brittney Meier – Olympic View Elementary

Military & Family Life Counselor

360.422.2652