INTRODUCTION:M-DCPS schools are welcome to apply to the annual Green Schools Recognition Program to receive recognition and cash awards for their dedication to creating a school-wide culture of sustainability.
PURPOSE:Foster a culture of sustainability in the district by incentivizing action at a school-level.This program will bring community resources together to encourage school leadership and a culture of sustainability.Financial awards will be raised by patrons and their involvement will be recognized in November’s school-board meeting. School leadership will be notified at the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year about the program and will be encouraged to document their progress. School leadership will have access to the application throughout the school year which will guide them throughout the school year in achieving on-campus sustainability objectives.
JUDGING:1st, 2nd, and 3rd Places are judged by community partners. Schools will receive one point for each marked initiative if it has a corresponding description and proof. The only section that will award 10 points for each initiative is under Community Partnerships in School Activities. Schools with the top three averaged scores will win 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards. Judges Choice Awards are judged by community partners and are awarded to schools that have exceeded expectations in the six identified categories.
Awards:
- 1st Place: $5,000
- 2nd Place: $3,000
- 3rd Place: $1,000
- Judge's Choice Award:$750 Each
Categories:
- School Grounds Enhancement
- School Sustainability
- Health and Well-being
- Curriculum Integration
- Community Involvement
- School-Wide Culture
EcoSaves Awards may be given to schools who submit a Green Schools Recognition Program Application receiving a minimum of 6 points and who have reduced their energy consumption by 5% or more.
Winners are announced during the November Board Meeting of the following school year, and it should be noted that Prize amounts may vary due to donor support*
Green Schools Tiers (Excluding Conservation Incentive Awards Points)
- Green School of Excellence: 115 points+
- Green School of Quality: 78 points - 114 points
- Green School of Promise: 41 points - 77 points
- Great Start Green School: 6 points (minimum required) - 40 points
Minimum Requirement: One initiative from each category (6 total) is required for all applying schools
