Rhode Island schools rank 1st in New England
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 Since 2007, Rhode Island has taken a two-fold
approach to ensure PreK-12 students learn in schools that are safe, clean and
increasingly environment-friendly: regulations that ensure uniformity and
equity in school construction, and compliance with Northeast Collaborative
for High Performance Schools Protocol (NECHPS) requirements to ensure
projects are built green. As a result, Rhode Island public schools built or renovated over the
last 15 years use at least 30% less energy and 20% less water than buildings
designed to code and have diverted at least 50% of construction waste from
landfills. “Congratulations to the Chariho, Cranston, Providence, and Westerly school communities on this incredible achievement. We are thrilled to see the transformation of Rhode Island schools across our state and are committed to creating more environmentally friendly learning spaces,” said Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. “Environmental awareness and literacy are
key to a successful learning environment, and the National Green Ribbon
School recognition serves as a reminder that our state is making an impact on
improving real-world learning. Congratulations to all those involved in
helping our schools achieve this.” Dunn’s Corners Elementary School, Westerly Dunn’s Corners Elementary School has focused on environmental preservation and education since the COVID-19 pandemic. The school has implemented initiatives including waste management through recycling and composting, as well as gardening and reducing energy use and costs. The school has replaced all water fountains with water bottle refill stations, while promoting the amount of water bottles that have been saved through this initiative. The school has also replaced lighting features throughout the building
with LED sensor lights that are energy efficient and last up to 25 times
longer than incandescent bulbs. Cleaning materials have also been shifted to
microfiber cloths and reusable spray bottles in the wake of the
pandemic. “Westerly is thrilled that our work to create a greener and more sustainable school community at Dunn’s Corners Elementary School is being commended by the federal government,” said Superintendent Dr. Marc Garceau. “We all have a role to play in protecting our natural resources
and promoting environmentally conscious efforts that will benefit our
planet. I applaud all members of our school community who worked
collaboratively to help us earn this federal distinction.” Chariho Regional School District The Chariho Regional School District has actively worked to create an efficient and safe physical environment, by implementing policies and procedures that limit the use of fossil fuels, electricity consumption, and improve air quality systems. The district has replaced their hot water heating generation equipment at the middle school and high school, and activated solar power generation for approximately 66 percent of electricity needs. They have also moved to a near-complete LED-based lighting system in the district. At Charlestown Elementary School, outdoor learning spaces were
created to enhance students’ access to the natural environment around them
through outdoor learning games, a nature trail and more. “We are absolutely thrilled to announce that our district has been honored with the Green Ribbon Award,” said Chariho Superintendent Gina Picard. “This remarkable achievement speaks volumes about our unwavering dedication to fostering an environment that supports student and staff health and wellness. We have also made a difference through our emphasis on initiatives that show a commitment to environmental sustainability. "Our district's Green Teams, comprised of dedicated individuals from our schools and community, have worked tirelessly to promote environmentally responsible choices and opportunities. We extend our deepest gratitude to our teachers, staff, students, parents, and community volunteers whose hard work and dedication have made this recognition possible. "Being
recognized for our efforts is a tremendous honor that only strengthens our
resolve to continue striving for a greener future. Together, we are laying
the foundation for future generations, and we are excited to embark on this
journey towards a more sustainable tomorrow.” The four Rhode Island schools and one district were part of 41 schools, 10 districts and three postsecondary institutions being honored for their commitment to green education in 2024. To view all of the winners, please go to the award winner page. You may also access the full report with
information for all honorees. For more information on the award, please visit
the U.S. Department of Education’s
Green Ribbon School homepage. |