Program Overview
What is the Green School Recognition Program?
The Green School Recognition Program recognizes public and private schools that encourage cultures of sustainability within their school environments. This program recognizes K-12 schools that have made strides in:
- Making school grounds enhancements that encourage the use of the grounds as a learning environment and enhance the areas ecological integrity.
- Enhancing school sustainability through the conservation of energy and water and the reduction of solid wastes.
- Integrating curriculum that will prepare students to understand and act on current and future environmental challenges facing South Florida.
- Involvement with the community that fosters partnerships within the school building and local organizations in an effort to create an awareness of environmental issues between the school and the community.
- Administrative support through active professional development and the creation of a school philosophy and culture that embraces sustainability.
Highlights from the 2009 Green Schools Recognition Program
This video was created by the Community Foundation of Palm Beach and Martin Counties.
Who is eligible?
All public and private K-12 schools in Palm Beach County.
What’s in it for us?
- Visibility as a model for sustainability in your community and among Palm Beach County schools
- Invitation to the Green School Awards Ceremony
- Top green schools will receive cash awards
- Green School flag for Green Schools of Excellence
- Certificates
- Media recognition
What are the levels of Green School recognition?
The goal of this program is to recognize schools that have made efforts to create a culture of sustainability within their school environments. Schools will be judged on six categories and will be given points based on the Green School Rubric of categories and indicators. There are three levels of recognition for a Green School:
- Program of Promise: A school that has scored 40-59 points and is taking the beginning steps to improve sustainability.
- Program of Quality: A school that has scored 60-79 points and is taking active strides in improving and maintaining sustainable practices.
- Program of Excellence: A school that has scored 80-100 points and shows the highest level of commitment to sustainability.
How can my school apply?
Before you can submit your application, someone from your school must attend the Green School Workshop (this is mandatory for all applicants). The workshop will give you the basic information you will need to help your school take successful steps towards sustainability. The application can be downloaded here. The major components of the application include:
- A cover sheet completed and signed by the principal, SAC chair, and two lead teachers.
- A narrative summary of your schools green activities.
- Documentation of all required criteria for recognition.
When are the applications due?
Applications are due March 1, 2010.
When will recognition be announced?
All schools will be notified of their status by April 5, 2010.
Where can my school get help?
For information regarding the application process and the workshop please contact Susan Toth:
Pine Jog Environmental Education Center 6301 Summit Blvd West Palm Beach FL 33415 (561) 686-6600For other resources and contacts please click here
