The Maryland State Department of Education today nominated two schools and one local school system for the U.S. Department of Education’s 2013 Green Ribbon Schools (GRS) Award.

State education agencies in 41 states, in collaboration with the U.S Department of Education, are participating in the second year of the GRS award program. Four Maryland schools were honored with the award during the inaugural year of 2012.

The two schools nominated are: Cedar Grove Elementary School (Montgomery County Public Schools) and Summit Hall Elementary School (Montgomery County Public Schools).  The Montgomery County Public School System was nominated for the district award.  All applications for the award were evaluated by a committee comprised of staff from State and national government agencies, State and regional environmental organizations, and private businesses.

Federal officials will recognize schools that save energy, reduce costs, feature environmentally sustainable learning spaces, protect health, foster wellness, and offer environmental education to boost academic achievement and community engagement. The recognition award is part of a larger U.S. Department of Education effort to identify and disseminate knowledge about practices proven to result in improved student engagement, academic achievement, graduation rates, and workforce preparedness, as well as a government-wide aim to increase energy independence and economic security.

“Maryland schools have been at the national forefront in their commitment to environmental education and to practices that will sustain our world for generations to come,” said State Superintendent Lillian M. Lowery.  “These nominees are emblematic of the wonderful work taking place throughout our State.”

U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan is scheduled to announce the recipients of the GRS awards on Earth Day, April 22.