Schools can help improve the quality of the environment for children and at the same time contribute to better environmental conditions for the community.
Many schools across the nation are recognizing the long term cost savings and environmental benefits of implementing green school initiatives. It is not unusual for teachers to incorporate the "green" school building within their curriculum, creating a hands-on environmental lesson for students.
The U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools Award program offers examples of effective green school practices.
This innovative practice area is under development.
Innovative Examples
Search:
for
Arizona State Awards K-6 Funding for Energy Implementation Grants -- Arizona[ abstract]
Arizona School Facilities Board(SFB)approved additional K-6 space for the Thatcher Unified District and awarded 2 million in Energy Implementation Grants on May 1, 2008.
A good example of a resolution for a school district making the case and a set of recommendations for more climate resilient schools. It is 4 pages long and was brought up for action by the Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education on November 18, 2025.
Tags & Topics: District Educational Facilities Master Planning
Ross Elementary School Storm Water Controlled Playground -- District of Columbia : Organization: 21st Century School Fund, Washington, DC [ abstract]
The 21st Century School Fund served as fiduciary and provided technical and management assistance to community groups at Bancroft Elementary School and Ross Elementary School for the construction of schoolyard storm water control systems. These partnerships evolved from participation in the Schoolyard Greening Consortium, a collaboration of hands-on environmental education non-profits, and the education experts from Watershed Protection Division of the city’s Department of Health.
School District Environmental Sustainability Plans -- Michigan[ abstract]
Many school districts are integrating environmental sustainability into their strategic plans. The sustainability work crosses the responsibilities for facilities, security, occupant health, and operational efficiencies. A well developed environmental sustainability plan also connects to student learning.
Tags & Topics: District Educational Facilities Master Planning
Communities reevaluate their growth patterns in ways that encourage the preservation of natural lands and the conservation of resources. Smart Growth involves local residents in the process of decision making when it comes to neighborhood development issues.
Stevensen Green Roof Project -- New York : Organization: New Visions for Public Schools, New York, NY [ abstract]
The Stevensen Green Roof Project in Bronx, New York City, was to transform the barren concrete roof of a building housing six schools into a living laboratory for hands on learning.
abstract]