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Two Maryland Schools Receive National Green Ribbon Honors

Federal Program in its Seventh Year

BALTIMORE – The U.S. Department of Education has announced that two Maryland schools have received 2018 Green Ribbon Schools (GRS) Awards.

Manchester Valley High School in Carroll County and Newport Middle School in Montgomery County received the prestigious honor. These schools were among 46 schools across the nation to receive the award, along with six districts and six postsecondary institutions.

U.S. Secretary of Education Betsey DeVos made the announcement today. Maryland’s 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.

“I’d like to congratulate the students, teachers, and families of Manchester Valley High and Newport Middle for their commitment to environmental awareness and stewardship,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Their hard work and dedication will ensure that Maryland continues to lead when it comes to protecting our environment and serves as an example for schools across the nation.”

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.

“The dedication these Green Ribbon Schools have shown to practicing effective environmental education is inspirational,” Dr. Salmon said. “The positive outcomes and changes these schools create through sustainable practices reach far beyond the state of Maryland and set a standard for the nation to follow.”

The honorees were named from a pool of candidates nominated by 25 states and the Department of Defense Schools. The list of all selected schools, districts, colleges, and universities, as well as their nomination packages, can be found here and a report with highlights on all honorees can be found here.

The federal Green Ribbon 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 a government-wide aim to increase energy independence and economic security.


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