Green Schools
Green schools are healthier for students and teachers, better for the environment, and cost less to operate and maintain. Here are some resources to help you learn more about what defines a “green” school and how your kids and your school district can benefit.
The United States Department of Education establishes policies on federal financial aid for education, and distribution and monitoring of those funds. In addition, the department collects data of America’s schools and disseminates research. The website contains information for educators, students, parents, and administrators.
The Green Schools Initiative was founded in 2004 by parent-environmentalists who were shocked by how un-environmental their kids’ schools were and mobilized to improve the environmental health and ecological sustainability of schools in the U.S. We believe it is essential to protect children’s health – at school and in the world beyond school – and we work to catalyze and support “green” actions by kids, teachers, parents, and policymakers to:
* Eliminate toxics
* Use resources sustainably
* Create green spaces and buildings
* Serve healthy food, and teach stewardship
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is a nonprofit composed of leaders from every sector of the building industry working to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. Our more than 13,000 member organizations and our network of 75 regional chapters are united to advance our mission of transforming the building industry to sustainability.
Recyclebank is a program that helps communities earn points and give rewards that students can use in their classrooms or everyday life.
Project Learning Tree (PLT) is a program of the American Forest Foundation that uses forests to engage young Americans and provide them with environmental education. PLT provides curriculum, programs, and other resources to educators so that they can introduce their students to an array of complex
Greenschools is 501(c) 3 Charitable Organization, whose mission is to create Greener & Healthier learning environments through education and awareness. We make the connections between having healthy bodies and a healthy planet.
The National Clearinghouse for Educational Facilities shows recent magazine and journal articles that are relevant to green schools and what they are doing in their communities.
Kids Gardening is part of the National Gardening Association. They provide grants, and free materials for educators and families to inspire gardening as a learning experience. Their mission is to empower generations to live healthier lives, build stronger communities, and encourage environmental stewardship. The Kids Gardening website provides a comprehensive collection of youth gardening content for the environmentally conscious youth and professional.
Healthy Green Schools provides information to teachers and administrators about green schools and why they are important.
The Green Schools Recognition Program encourages cultures of sustainability within school communities. This program recognizes schools for taking a holistic approach to going green that incorporates school ground enhancement, resource conservation, curriculum connections, and community involvement with a school wide commitment and focus on sustainability.