ISBE Opens Applications for 2024 Green Ribbon Schools Program

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and the Illinois Green Alliance today announced the opening of the 2024-25 application period for the Illinois Green Ribbon Schools Award. Schools across Illinois are invited to apply and showcase their achievements in environmental sustainability and education.

"Sustainability initiatives in schools lay a foundation for lifelong environmental responsibility," said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. "Illinois Green Ribbon Schools exemplify the innovative spirit and commitment to stewardship that we want to see in every learning environment. This program not only celebrates schools that are leading the way in sustainability but also inspires students to envision and create a better, greener future. We're eager to see the impactful projects Illinois schools bring forward in this year's applications."

"This program is not only a great way for schools to take a moment to take stock in all the hard work that has gone into making a school sustainable and celebrate, but it also is a great program to inspire the next school to take that first step in their sustainability journey," said Miranda Wright of Illinois Green Alliance. "We encourage all schools to take a look through the application, browse through past Illinois honorees' stories, and plan for the sustainable future you want to see for your students and community."

The Illinois Green Ribbon Schools program honors schools that excel in reducing environmental impact and costs, promoting health and wellness, and providing comprehensive environmental education. Schools are assessed on their progress in each of the program's three key pillars:

• Reducing environmental impact and costs.
• Improving health and wellness of schools, students, and staff.
• Providing environmental education, which incorporates STEM, civic skills, and pathways to green careers.

The top applicants from Illinois will be submitted to the U.S. Department of Education's Green Ribbon Schools Program for national recognition. The U.S. Department of Education typically announces its winners on Earth Day, April 22, and extends invitations to a subsequent award ceremony in Washington, D.C.

Last year's Illinois Green Ribbon Schools honorees exemplified outstanding commitment to sustainability and environmental education. Clarendon Hills Middle School implemented energy-efficient systems, including a Demand-Response contract for grid stability, onsite solar and wind power, and a composting program, while fostering outdoor learning through its Clarendon Living Classroom. Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95 pursued a holistic approach with LED lighting, electric vehicle charging stations, and renewable energy sources like geothermal and solar. The district also involved students in waste reduction efforts and promoted community collaboration through partnerships and nature-focused field trips. Both honorees highlight the impactful role of sustainability in education.

Schools interested in applying are encouraged to review information on ISBE's Illinois Green Ribbons Schools webpage and view the informational webinar. All application materials must be submitted by 5 p.m. on December 20, 2024. Contact [email protected]​ if you have questions or need further information.