Last week, the U.S. Department of Education announced the winners of the 2024 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools, District Sustainability Awardees and Postsecondary Sustainability Awardees.
Only two New Mexico schools and districts were chosen.
Polk Middle School in Albuquerque Public Schools was chosen as a 2024 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School and the Cuba Independent School District was selected as a 2024 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School District Sustainability Awardee.
“Congratulations to the students, faculty and staff of Polk Middle School and Cuba Independent School District,” said Public Education Secretary Arsenio Romero. “Your dedication to sustainability not only sets a commendable example for your peers but also paves the way for a brighter, greener future for generations to come.”
Awards are granted to those who show incorporation of environmental learning with improving environmental and health impacts.
Cuba Independent School District has been integrating outdoor and environmental learning for years. Their work in the community includes healthy walking paths, paths that connect the classrooms to the wilderness, gardens, and a greenhouse. As the Signpost reported, the district implemented in-house food growing operations to reduce its carbon footprint and save on shipping and operational costs.
The district also initiated waste reduction programs, such as repurposing and composting, significantly reducing landfill waste and lowering disposal expenses.
Across the country, 41 schools, 10 districts, three postsecondary institutions and one early learning center are being honored for their innovative efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, improve health and wellness, and ensure effective sustainability education. Representatives from each school will go to a ceremony in Washington, D.C. where they receive a plaque and have their efforts celebrated.