Celebrating Earth Day: Two Maryland Schools Earn 2020 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School Designation
CONTACT: Lora Rakowski, 410-767-0486
Oakland Terrace Elementary in Montgomery County and Wellwood International School in Baltimore County Selected for National Recognition
BALTIMORE – The U.S. Department of Education announced today that two Maryland schools have earned 2020 U.S. Department of School Green Ribbon School (GRS) designation.
Oakland Terrace Elementary School in Montgomery County and Wellwood International School in Baltimore County both received U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School recognition. They were among 39 schools across the nation to receive this prestigious recognition, along with 11 school systems and 5 postsecondary institutions. Maryland schools have received national honors during each of the nine years of this federal program.
U.S. Secretary of Education Betsey DeVos made the announcement today, on the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. Applications for the award were evaluated by a committee comprised of staff from State and national government agencies, State and regional environmental organizations, and private businesses. Along with April 22, 2020 being recognized as Earth Day nationally, Governor Hogan proclaimed April as Environmental Education Month.
Dr. Karen Salmon, State Superintendent of Schools, applauded the winners and commended them for the leadership role they play not only in Maryland’s school system, but across the nation as well.
“As we implement our continuity of learning plan, the education community remains connected and engaged, especially on critical matters such as learning and environmental stewardship. On this 50th anniversary of Earth Day, we congratulate and celebrate Oakland Terrace Elementary and Wellwood International schools for earning U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School recognition and their dedication to improving the health and wellness of their school communities,” said Karen B. Salmon, Ph.D., State Superintendent of Schools. “Maryland schools have embraced environmental initiatives by providing interdisciplinary environmental and sustainability education and are setting an example for schools across the nation.”
The U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School program recognizes schools that save energy, reduce costs, feature environmentally sustainable learning spaces, protect health, foster wellness, and offer environmental education to boost academic achievement and community engagement. The recognition award is part of a larger U.S. Department of Education effort to identify and disseminate knowledge about practices proven to result in improved student engagement, academic achievement, graduation rates, and workforce preparedness, as well as the aim to increase energy independence and economic security. The list of all selected schools, districts, colleges and universities, as well as their nomination packages, can be found here. A report with highlights on the 55 honorees can be found here.
# # #
Two Maryland Schools Earn 2020 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School Designation
