Lessons From Leaders of the U.S. Department of Education's Green Ribbon Schools

• In Event: 70.052 - Researching Policies and Programs: Critical Analysis of Assessments and Evaluation Measures

Abstract

Between 2012 and 2014, the US Department of Education recognized 213 Green Ribbon Schools. These exemplary schools have developed unique green initiatives that have reduced costs, improved the health of their staff and students and integrated environmental education into their curricula. Our study of 75 of these schools reveals the academic, economic and community involvement benefits these schools have experienced as a result of this work. We detail these benefits and offer findings that demonstrate these benefits are consistent across schools serving varied racial and socio-economic populations. Finally, we offer guidance from 75 school principals/project coordinators as to how they sustain the efforts recognized by the US Department of Education.

Authors

• Scott R. Imig, University of Newcastle

• William L. Sterrett, University of North Carolina - Wilmington