PENNSYLVANIA — In a significant move towards promoting environmental literacy and sustainability, the Shapiro Administration recently announced that applications are now open for the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools (ED-GRS) and the PA Pathways to Green Schools awards for the 2023-24 academic year.
The annual ED-GRS program allows each state to nominate up to five Pre-K-12 schools or districts and one postsecondary institution. The U.S. Department of Education will select the awardees and announce them in the spring. Eligibility requirements for the awards can be found on the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools website.
“Green Ribbon Schools help learners become stewards of their environment and their communities,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin. “By participating in this program, schools are signaling their commitment to preserving our ecosystem and providing hands-on learning opportunities that have real-world impacts.”
Pennsylvania schools, districts, and higher education institutions are encouraged to submit their self-nomination materials through the dual application available on the Pennsylvania Department of Education website.
DEP Interim Acting Secretary Jessica Shirley highlighted the importance of environmental education, stating, “Exposing students to effective environmental education plays an important role in promoting conservation and environmental stewardship. We are proud to see the program help school districts across the Commonwealth start on the path towards a more sustainable future.”
Nominees for the Green Ribbon Schools awards must demonstrate progress in reducing environmental impacts, improving health and wellness, and offering effective environmental and sustainability education that emphasizes hands-on learning, civic engagement, STEM connections, and green career preparation.
DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn noted the competitiveness of Pennsylvania schools in the Green Ribbon Schools selection process and encouraged more schools to apply. “This initiative is key in preparing future generations for positive environmental stewardship,” she said.
Since its inception in 2011, the ED-GRS program has recognized numerous schools, districts, and higher education institutions across the country for their commitment to reducing environmental impact, improving health and wellness, and providing environmental education.
In 2023, 18 states nominated a total of 41 honorees, including 11 districts, 26 schools, and four postsecondary institutions. Among the Pennsylvania entities that received national recognition were Hillendale Elementary School in the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District, California Area School District, and West Chester University.
With the opening of applications, Pennsylvania aims to promote environmental awareness and sustainability in education, fostering a generation of environmentally conscious citizens.
Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Pathways to Green Schools web page to apply.
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