Prairie State Wire

ISBE has acknowledged the recipients of the 2024 Green Ribbon Schools and District Sustainability awards, recently announced by the U.S. Department of Education. Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95 and Clarendon Hills Middle School were nominated for their outstanding commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and effective sustainability education.

The U.S. Department of Education selected a total of 41 schools, 10 districts, three postsecondary institutions, and one early learning center as 2024 Green Ribbon Schools. These honorees have shown innovative efforts in reducing environmental impact and utility costs, improving health and wellness, and ensuring effective sustainability education.

State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders expressed his congratulations: "Congratulations to Illinois' 2024 Green Ribbon Schools, Clarendon Hills Middle School and Lake Zurich CUSD 95, for the well-deserved recognition of their commitment to environmentalism," he stated. “Their efforts have fostered environmental stewardship and inspired students to become agents of positive change in their communities."

Lake Zurich CUSD 95 Superintendent Kelley Gallt shared her pride: “I could not be prouder of the collective efforts to champion green initiatives by so many stakeholders across the school district," she said. "This Department of Education Green Ribbon designation is a testament to this commitment as well as an incredible honor."

Clarendon Hills Middle School Principal Dr. Levi Brown also commented on the award: “The entire D181 School District is thrilled that Clarendon Hills Middle School has been awarded the Green Ribbon School distinction," he noted. "Our stakeholders are committed to innovative efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, improve health and wellness, and offer effective sustainability education throughout our school."

Clarendon Hills Middle School's sustainability initiatives include a Demand-Response contract for energy management, onsite solar and wind power, efficient building systems, environmental education programs, composting activities, community involvement through partnerships like the Clarendon Living Classroom.

Lake Zurich CUSD 95 adopts a holistic approach with LED lighting, electric vehicle charging stations, renewable energy sources such as geothermal and solar power. The district integrates environmental education into its curriculum while engaging students in waste reduction efforts.

Each year ISBE nominates educational entities for these awards in collaboration with organizations such as the Illinois Green Alliance. Winners are typically announced during Earth Week with an invitation extended for a ceremony in Washington D.C.