SPRINGFIELD – ISBE today recognized recipients of 2024 Green Ribbon Schools and District Sustainability awards, which were recently announced by the U.S. Department of Education (ED). ISBE nominated Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95 and Clarendon Hills Middle School for the award due to their exceptional commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and effective sustainability education.
ED selected 41 schools, 10 districts, three postsecondary institutions, and one early learning center as 2024 Green Ribbon Schools. Honorees have demonstrated innovative efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, improve health and wellness, and ensure effective sustainability education.
"Congratulations to Illinois' 2024 Green Ribbon Schools, Clarendon Hills Middle School and Lake Zurich CUSD 95, for the well-deserved recognition of their commitment to environmentalism,"
said State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders. “Their efforts have fostered environmental stewardship and inspired students to become agents of positive change in their communities. We owe it to our students to take good care of the planet they will inherit. I applaud our 2024 Green Ribbon Schools for prioritizing sustainability in their facilities and in students' learning opportunities."
“I could not be prouder of the collective efforts to champion green initiatives by so many stakeholders across the school district, including our students, staff, administrators, families, and the Board of Education," said Lake Zurich 95 Superintendent Kelley Gallt. “Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95 is committed to developing global citizens who demonstrate environmental responsibility, which is identified in the district's most recent strategic plan, Empower95. This Department of Education Green Ribbon designation is a testament to this commitment as well as an incredible honor."
“The entire D181 School District is thrilled that Clarendon Hills Middle School has been awarded the Green Ribbon School distinction. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, students, parents, and faculty," said Clarendon Hills Middle School Principal Dr. Levi Brown. “Our stakeholders are committed to innovative efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, improve health and wellness, and offer effective sustainability education throughout our school. We are excited to continue our efforts within Clarendon Hills Middle School to promote environmental stewardship and inspire future generations. Big thanks to everyone who has been a part of this journey – together, we're making a difference!"
Clarendon Hills Middle School's commitment to sustainability includes initiatives like the development of a Demand-Response contract, which is used to manage energy consumption effectively and ensure grid stability, onsite solar and wind power, and efficient building systems. The school offers environmental education programs and engages students in activities, such as composting. Additionally, the school fosters community involvement through partnerships and initiatives like the Clarendon Living Classroom, which offers opportunities for outdoor learning and lab experiences.
Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95 implements a holistic approach to sustainability with LED lighting, electric vehicle charging stations, and renewable energy sources such as geothermal and solar. The district integrates environmental education into the curriculum, engages students in waste reduction efforts, and involves the community through partnerships and committees. The district sponsors field trips to nature preserves and fosters collaboration on outdoor education projects.
See the
list of all selected schools, districts, colleges, and universities, as well as their nomination packages. Read a
report that highlights honorees' achievements. Learn
more about the federal recognition award. Find
resources for all schools to move toward sustainable practices.
ISBE annually nominates educational entities for the Green Ribbon Schools Awards in partnership with the Illinois Green Alliance and the Illinois Board of Higher Education. ED typically announces its winners during Earth Week and invites awardees to a ceremony in Washington, D.C.
