Prairie State Wire

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and the Illinois Green Alliance have announced the opening of applications for the 2024-25 Illinois Green Ribbon Schools Award. This program invites schools across Illinois to demonstrate their achievements in environmental sustainability and education.

"Sustainability initiatives in schools lay a foundation for lifelong environmental responsibility," said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. "Illinois Green Ribbon Schools exemplify the innovative spirit and commitment to stewardship that we want to see in every learning environment. This program not only celebrates schools that are leading the way in sustainability but also inspires students to envision and create a better, greener future. We’re eager to see the impactful projects Illinois schools bring forward in this year’s applications."

Miranda Wright from the Illinois Green Alliance added, "This program is not only a great way for schools to take a moment to take stock in all the hard work that has gone into making a school sustainable and celebrate, but it also is a great program to inspire the next school to take that first step in their sustainability journey. We encourage all schools to take a look through the application, browse through past Illinois honorees’ stories, and plan for the sustainable future you want to see for your students and community."

The program recognizes schools excelling in reducing environmental impact, promoting health and wellness, and providing comprehensive environmental education. The evaluation focuses on three pillars: reducing environmental impact and costs; improving health and wellness of schools, students, and staff; providing environmental education with STEM integration, civic skills, and pathways to green careers.

Top applicants from Illinois will be submitted for national recognition by the U.S. Department of Education’s Green Ribbon Schools Program. Winners are typically announced on Earth Day, April 22.

Last year's honorees included Clarendon Hills Middle School with its energy-efficient systems like solar power and composting programs, as well as Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95's holistic approach involving LED lighting and renewable energy sources.

Schools interested in applying should visit ISBE’s website for information on how to apply by December 20, 2024.