3 Manalapan Schools Get 2020 Sustainable Schools Certification

MANALAPAN, NJ - Three schools in Manalapan were recently awarded certification by Sustainable Jersey for Schools for innovative strides in environmental protection.

Wemrock Brook Elementary School, Taylor Mills Elementary School and Pine Brook Elementary School were recognized on Sept. 15 by the Ewing-based nonprofit organization.

Of the 147 schools that achieved certification this year, 80 schools did so for the first time and 67 schools were recertified, according to a news release from the nonprofit. A total of 969 schools and 352 school districts are participating in the Sustainable Jersey for Schools program overall.

The Sustainable Jersey for Schools program, founded in 2014, recognizes public schools that aim to conserve resources, increase environmental sustainability and “go green”. Each school that is certified at the bronze level or above must submit documentation to show it has completed a balanced portfolio of the program’s sustainability actions, which include energy efficiency, green design, green cleaning, innovation projects, climate mitigation and renewable energy.

Schools are awarded bronze, silver or gold distinction based on a point system. In 2020, six schools achieved certification at the silver level, including Winslow Township Middle School in Camden County, Franklin Township Elementary School in Hunterdon County and Spring Lake Heights Elementary, Unity Charter School, Raritan High School and Ramtown Elementary School in Monmouth County.

“We were not sure what to expect after this difficult year, but the response has been inspiring. We’ve seen an increase in the number of certified schools since last year,” said Randall Solomon, the executive director of Sustainable Jersey for Schools. “I commend the teachers, administrators, staff, parents and students for their commitment and vision for the future. Becoming certified with Sustainable Jersey for Schools is a significant achievement and these schools are leading the way to a more sustainable New Jersey, right when we need it the most.”

You can find the complete list of winners here.

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