5 Green Ribbon Schools Recognized Across California

CALIFORNIA —More than two dozen learning institutions across the country were recognized Thursday by the U.S. Department of Education. All were lauded for their efforts to reduce environmental impact and boost sustainability.

The California honorees from Westminster, Perris, Indio, Los Altos and Hillsborough were among the 27 schools, three early learning centers, five districts, and five post-secondary institutions across the country that received various environmental-based awards. All of these institutions shared a common practice, according to the Department of Education.

Each shared "innovative efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, improve health and wellness, and ensure effective sustainability education," according to the department.

In California, the five nominated Green Ribbon Schools are:

• Fryberger Elementary School Westminster, CA Nomination Package: PDF
• May Ranch Elementary School Perris, CA Nomination Package: PDF
• Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School Indio, CA Nomination Package: PDF
• Los Altos High School Los Altos, CA Nomination Package: PDF
• The Nueva School Hillsborough, CA Nomination Package: PDF

In Westminster, Fryberger Elementary, students engage in STEM activities that promote energy efficiency and learn the science behind weather and the impact of global warming, the school reported. An after-school garden grows fruits and vegetables for families. Third-grade students take part in beach-cleanup activities and analyze the trash they discover and learn what damage that does to the environment. Fourth and fifth graders present findings and learn about solar power as compared to fossil fuels.

These and more projects made them a perfect fit for the Green Awards.

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona described what the award means, saying green schools are for all communities, not just the privileged.

"The pandemic has driven home the vital importance of school buildings and grounds; health and wellness; and hands-on authentic learning," Cardona said. "I congratulate the selected schools, districts, and postsecondary institutions, which are, through their sustainability practices, offering healthy, safe, efficient school environments and protecting our planet.

"Not surprisingly, many of our honorees support students in underserved communities, proving once again that green schools' practices, encompassing best practices school operations, health, and environmental learning, are critical tools to advance equity."

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