Why GREEN Schools?

Green schools are more than buildings. They are places where children learn the wonders of the world and teachers prepare the next generation of leaders and citizens. These schools are built and operated to be full of clean air and sunlight and to be free of toxic materials and harmful chemicals.  Green schools are energy efficient, helping to lower utility costs, conserve resources and reduce waste. Green schools showcase a community’s commitment to its children and their future, who in turn,learn from an early age the importance and benefits of acting as responsible stewards of their communities and the larger world.  The U.S. Green Building Council  [USGBC]

Did you know…  In the US, there are approximately 54 million children and seven million adults (75% female) in the nation’s 120,000 public and private schools. According to The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), more than 53 million children and 6 million adults in the United States spend their days inside our elementary and secondary schools, and has estimated that up to half of all schools may have problems with indoor air quality.

1 out of 13 people have asthma, and that asthma is the number one cause of school absenteeism.

Green Schools has people on the ground working to make our schools healthier for students, teachers, and the surrounding environment.

Green Schools students are entering the workforce and higher education often better prepared than their peers.

Green Schools members stay informed year round and can save thousands of dollars by implementing efficient programs and policies.

Green Schools attended the first White House Summit on Environmental Education.

About this Green Schools Organization and Schools Today…

Green Schools’ innovative programming will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve water quality, expand alternative transportation, and help our kids become the next generation of environmental leaders” US Senator, John Kerry

“Schools are not only reducing their energy use, they are providing effective environmental education that engages students, and prepares them to compete in a technology driven economy.” MA Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Mitchell Chester

Secretary Arne Duncan at National Green Schools Conference on Green Schools on Testing & Learning Attributes:

Secretary Arne Duncan at Green Schools National Conference 2012