Hoover High named Green Ribbon School by U.S. Dept. of Education

Last month, the U.S. Department of Education announced its list of 2024 Green Ribbon Schools. Out of 41 schools across the country, our very own Hoover High School made the list—read on to find out why!

What are green ribbon schools?

Not familiar with Green Ribbon Schools? A new initiative adopted by the U.S. Department of Education, Green Ribbon Schools highlight schools that show high engagement in sustainable practices, such as: 

• Cost-saving initiatives
• Performance-enhancing sustainability practices
• Health promoting

Green Ribbon School award recipients are invited to a ceremony at the White House, receive a plaque and serve as a model for other schools to learn from.

“This year’s U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools are leading school transformation in states that will help ensure all students in all communities have the opportunity to grow to become strong and healthy learners.”

Miguel Cardona, U.S. Secretary of Education

Why did Hoover High make the Green Ribbon School list?

According to a press release from Hoover High School, the U.S. Department of Education recognized the Buccaneers for their integration of environmental education in various studies. 

For example, students in biology and other environmental courses utilized Hoover High’s proximity to the Cahaba River for study. Using viable technology—such as solar energy learning stations, sensory gardens and mental health trails—students are able to get a hands-on perspective about the environment. 

Advanced Placement Environmental Science Teacher and STEM Team Coach Janet Ort said in a press release that students play a vital role in this honor.

“Many of the BioBucs’ research and service projects represent their passions and interests. Without their work, we would not have so many exciting opportunities, nor the local, state, and national recognition we have garnered.”

Janet Ort, Advanced Placement Environmental Science Teacher and STEM Team Coach

How you can get involved

These schools are just one of the many ways we can get involved and help promote environmental sustainability. The Department of Education has launched a series of new publications highlighting methods to take an eco-friendly leap into school concepts and practices.

Listed below are the new publications:

• Framework for a Sustainable School
• The Education Sector in Climate Action
• School Environmental Justice as Social Justice
• How School Operations Affect the Environment
• School Grounds and the Outdoors

You can also read all the schools recognized for the 2024 Green Ribbon Schools initiative here.

Have you been practicing environmentally friendly techniques? How has it changed the way you live? Tag us on Instagram @bhamnow to share tips!