LA PLATA, Md. (May 2, 2011) — The Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education Maryland Green School awards program recently named Dr. James Craik and Indian Head elementary schools with as Maryland Green Schools. Both schools completed a two-year application process earlier this school year to become a Maryland Green School.

The application process requires schools to include documented classroom integration of environmental issues, demonstrate conservation practices and provide evidence of existing community partnerships that help enhance environmental learning. Projects implemented in Green Schools contribute to lowering green house gas emissions, reducing pollutant exports to the Chesapeake Bay, staunching solid waste disposal and increasing wildlife habitat.

Craik and Indian Head join 11 other Charles County schools that have completed the Green School application process. Since 2000, the awards program has honored Berry, Gale-Bailey, Arthur Middleton and J.C. Parks elementary schools, John Hanson, Matthew Henson, Milton M. Somers and Piccowaxen middle schools, and Thomas Stone and Westlake high schools as Maryland Green Schools. Last year, the Nanjemoy Creek Environmental Education Center was also named a Maryland Green Center.

“I applaud all of our schools that have achieved Green School status. It is important that students understand environmental issues and learn what they can do to help conserve resources. The application process also incorporates curriculum in alignment with the school system’s focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) practices and creates community involvement opportunities for our students,” Superintendent of Schools James E. Richmond said.

Green Schools are recognized for using their sites to help students understand and act on environmental challenges in Maryland. Green Schools and Centers model environmental practices in building and landscape design, and operation and maintenance. Green Schools and Centers are also recognized for building and maintaining partnerships with their local community to enhance environmental learning and to design programs to result in a healthier environment.

Craik and Indian Head will officially be recognized as Green Schools during the Maryland Green School Youth Summit on June 3 at Sandy State Park. Each school will receive a Green School flag. Green Schools and Centers must renew their status every three years. The program is an integrated approach to learning that incorporates local environmental issue investigation and professional development with environmental best practices and community stewardship.

For more information on the Green Schools program, visit http://www.maeoe.org/.

Source: Charles County Public Schools