Since 2016, Missouri Green Schools has partnered with the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to nominate Missouri schools for the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools award. During the 2020-2021 school year, Missouri Green Schools is beginning its pilot phase as a state-level recognition program!
About Missouri Green Schools
Missouri Green Schools is a free tracking and recognition program designed to help PreK-12 schools in Missouri:
- improve the health and wellness of students and staff,
- reduce environmental impact and costs, and
- incorporate environmental and sustainability education.
Schools can see stronger educational outcomes and reduced costs as a result of big and small changes that also help the environment. These changes can happen throughout the school building and grounds, educational programming, and culture.
The program’s tracking tools and support resources create a pathway for state and national recognition, including eligibility to be nominated for the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools Award.
Who is Missouri Green Schools for?
Missouri Green Schools is free and open to all PreK-12 schools in Missouri.
Schools with 60% or more free and reduced priced lunch programs have the opportunity for additional support, including access to one-on-one assistance in setting goals and tracking progress as well as financial support for staff professional development and through small grant opportunities.
Are you interested in becoming a Missouri Green School?
To kick things off, all you need is a school staff member, like a teacher, principal, or custodian, to take the lead and contact mgs@meea.org to get started.
What we do now to build a healthier future will make a difference for our kids today, and generations of Missouri students. The Missouri Green Schools team is here to help you! Visit missourigreenschools.org to learn more.
Missouri Green Schools is a joint program of the Missouri Environmental Education Association and U.S. Green Building Council-Missouri Gateway Chapter.
