Florida Schools Named Green Ribbon Schools
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Florida Schools Named Green Ribbon Schools
- First-ever award recognizes schools for their commitment to the environment -Tallahassee - Three Florida schools are among 78 schools in 29 states named as 2012 Green Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education. Learning Gate Community School in Hillsborough County, Pine Jog Elementary School in Palm Beach County, and TERRA Environmental Research Institute in Miami-Dade County were recognized for their commitment to reducing environmental impacts, improving the health and academic performance of students and staff, and increasing the number of graduates that are environmentally and sustainability literate.
"I applaud Florida's winners for being recognized as National Green Ribbon schools," said Florida Education Commissioner Gerard Robinson. "The Sunshine State has a rich and diverse ecosystem that provides a unique setting for students to learn about the environment and their natural surroundings. Florida is well-represented for our commitment to cultivating an environmentally sustainable learning atmosphere and I appreciate the devotion of the administrators, teachers, parents and students that made this national recognition possible."
U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan made the announcement this morning at a school in Washington, D.C. The winning schools represent a diverse portfolio that includes 66 public and 12 private schools in both urban and rural communities. More than 100 schools were nominated by 30 states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Bureau of Indian Education.
The Green Ribbon Schools Award Program was established this year to recognize schools' exemplary achievement in environmental impact, health and education. Through innovative and sustainable concepts, the program advances the goals of environmental stewardship; cutting schools' energy costs; fostering health, wellness and academic achievement; providing a well-rounded education and increasing STEM skills; and boosting students' college and career readiness.
To learn more about the Green Ribbon Schools award program and to view a list of recognized schools, visit http://www2.ed.gov/programs/green-ribbon-schools/.
Florida has been recognizing students, teachers, schools and districts through the Florida Green School Awards since 2008. The application for the new 2011-2012 Florida Green School Awards is now open at http://www.floridagreenschoolnetwork.org/nominationform/. Students, teachers and classes are encouraged to apply now through June 4th, 2012. Schools and School Districts are encouraged to apply now through July 13th, 2012.