On Earth Day, Secretary Rivera Congratulates Schools Earning Recognition as U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools

HARRISBURG, Pa., April 22, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Secretary of Education Pedro A. Rivera congratulates one school, one postsecondary institution, and one school district for being among the 73 institutions and local education agencies recognized nationwide by the U.S. Department of Education today as Green Ribbon Schools for their efforts on environmental issues.

Park Forest Elementary School in State College, Slippery Rock University, and the School District of Jenkintown all earned Green Ribbon Schools designations from the federal government today.

"Pennsylvania's Green Ribbon Schools represent the commonwealth's commitment to providing students with an education that can present new pathways in fields – like STEM and agriculture – that lead to work in high priority occupations," said Rivera. "Meanwhile, the state's environment benefits as these schools work to reduce their environmental impact. I applaud these schools for their efforts to improve the economy and preserve the environment through their conscientious and innovative efforts."

The awards were announced in Washington, D.C. by U.S. Education Secretary John King and Christy Goldfuss, the managing director of the White House Council on Environmental Quality. Across the country, 47 schools, 15 districts, and 11 postsecondary institutions were honored for their innovative environmental efforts.

The Green Ribbon Schools program recognizes schools, districts and institutions of higher education based on their efforts to reduce environmental impact and costs; to improve health and wellness of schools, students and staff; and to provide environmental education, including STEM, civics and green career pathways.

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 73 honorees can be found here.

More information on the federal recognition award can be found here.

MEDIA CONTACT: Nicole Reigelman, 717-783-9802.                                           

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Education

Related Links

http://www.state.pa.us