The U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools Program awardees have been recognized for their success in reducing environmental impact, improving health and wellness, and offering effective environmental and sustainability education to students.

These schools’ innovative efforts showcase 21^st Century Learning framework by preparing all students for the challenges of work, life, and citizenship in the 21st century and beyond, as well as ensure ongoing innovation in our economy.

Check out the 2017 Green Ribbon School Awardees!

Across the country, 45 schools, nine districts, and nine postsecondary institutions have been honored for their innovative efforts to promote environmental health and sustainability. For example:

Campus Cleanup

• Childersburg Elementary School in Alabama have been busy with monthly campus cleanup, raking and using pine straw to protect shrubs and plants around the campus and repurposing shredded paper to make decorative ornaments for the community.

Recycling

• Students at Sedalia Elementary School in Colorado follow an effective recycling program; divert food waste from the cafeteria to chicken coops, and practice composting and vermicomposting, leading to a 70 percent recycling rate.

Outdoor Learning

• F. Neil Postlethwait Middle School in Delaware features an outdoor classroom, complete with a learning deck. This area allows students to get outside and make connections between the environmental science content they learn as part of the Delaware Science Coalition curriculum and the natural world around them. They make observations about nature, pose questions, and gather information to explain these natural phenomena.

If your school would like to learn more ways about “going green” access resources to move toward the three “Pillars” here.

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