Tuesday, May 10, 2022
Every school can be a green and healthy school, and Green & Healthy Schools Wisconsin wants to recognize your school’s achievements.
Based on a comprehensive approach to reducing environmental impacts and costs, improving health and wellness, and increasing environmental literacy, schools are recognized at one of four levels: Sprout, Seedling, Sapling, or Sugar Maple. Schools that achieve the “Sugar Maple” level are also eligible for nomination to U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools. To date, 38 schools, districts, and early learning centers have received this national award.
In addition to recognition, when schools complete their survey, they are added to a map of the Green & Healthy Schools movement in Wisconsin, receive feedback on accomplishments and get ideas for next steps, are connected to a network of support, and receive timely information regarding funding and events to reach their sustainability goals.
Led by the Departments of Natural Resources and Public Instruction, the Green & Healthy Schools Wisconsin movement connects, catalyzes, and celebrates the schools across the state. All PK-12 public, tribal, and private schools in the state are invited to submit a new survey by October 31, 2022 to receive recognition.
Share Your School's Story
To get started, schools should first request an account. Schools can begin planning for the survey by making a copy of the questions to prepare answers. Once an account is set up and survey responses prepared, log in to the Green & Healthy Schools Wisconsin website and submit the survey. Schools will receive recognition as a Green & Healthy School and may even be invited to submit additional information for nomination to U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools.
All schools are encouraged to complete the survey by October 31, 2022. The user’s browser will automatically save survey responses as it is completed so it can be completed in multiple sessions if needed.
School survey responses will be merged with data provided from partners across the state to help map a complete picture of the Green & Healthy Schools movement. Schools are asked to submit the survey between May - October annually to report on prior year activities.
For more information about Green & Healthy Schools Wisconsin or to request an account, visit the website at www.ghswisconsin.org
For more information about U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools, visit the DPI's website or email Victoria Rydberg at victoria.rydberg@dpi.wi.gov.
Subscriber submission: Wisconsin DPI Environmental Education Consultant Victoria Rydberg