WDNR MADISON – Four Wisconsin schools involved in the state Green & Health Schools program have been named national Green Ribbon Schools winners.
Green Ribbon Schools is a U.S. Department of Education program that recognizes schools participating in activities that promote and encourage a healthy and environmentally friendly learning environment. Wisconsin's honored schools are also certified Sugar Maple schools in the Green & Healthy Schools Wisconsin program, a partnership program of the Department of Natural Resources, the Department of Public Instruction [exit DNR] and the Wisconsin Center for Environmental Education [exit DNR].
The state's Green and Healthy Schools program supports and encourages schools to create safe learning environments and prepare students to understand, analyze and address the major environmental and sustainability challenges now and in the future through providing resources, recognition and certification. Participating schools are also recognized as PLT GreenSchools! and are eligible for additional funding and professional development opportunities.
These four Sugar Maple Green & Healthy Schools won the prestigious Green Ribbon award:
- Jefferson Elementary-Fox River Academy (Appleton Area School District): "Integrated sustainability in school wetlands, forest, stream, pond and gardens;"
- Westlawn Elementary School (Cedarburg School District): "A green and healthy school ... that's not afraid to get out the chainsaws!";
- Summit Environmental School (La Crosse School District): "Partnering with local professionals to make sustainability and science career connections;" and
- Racine Montessori School: "Waste-free every day!"
In addition, the Fort Atkinson School District was one of 14 nationwide to earn the first ever "District Sustainability Awards." Fort Atkinson has achieved EPA Energy Star certification for every school building, offers environmental curriculum including AP Environmental Science, involves students and teachers in sustainability policy formulation, and takes other steps for health and sustainability.
Wisconsin and three other states (California, Pennsylvania and Washington) have the greatest number of Green Ribbon Schools honorees for 2013.
