Recognition

  • State Recognition

    Schools can earn recognition at the state level through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection recognizes schools that commit to conserving and protecting Florida’s natural resources through the Green School Designation Program. The program’s environmental guidelines help Florida primary and secondary schools evaluate operations, set goals and take specific actions to improve environmental performance. Designated Green Schools create a healthier environment for students, employees, and communities. Reducing water and energy use and reducing waste help lower operating costs. The School District of Palm Beach County currently has 14 Green Apple Schools:

    • Calusa Elementary School (2023)
    • Coral Reef Elementary School (2022)
    • Forest Hill Elementary School (2022)
    • Frontier Elementary School (2024)
    • Grassy Waters Elementary School (2022)
    • Hammock Pointe Elementary School (2022)
    • Highland Elementary School (2017)
    • John I. Leonard High School (2022)
    • Jupiter Elementary School (2022)
    • Lake Worth Community High School (2022)
    • Limestone Creek Elementary School (2020)
    • Palm Beach Central High School (2022)
    • Palmetto Elementary School (2022)
    • Sandpiper Shores Elementary School (2021)
    • South Grade Elementary School (2023)

    Florida Green Schools Logo

    National Recognition

    Only schools designated GREEN by the state can be eligible for the highest recognition at the National level, the U.S. Department of Education's Green Ribbon Program. The District has been a Green Ribbon District since 2013 and has three Green Ribbon Schools:

    • Gove Elementary School (2018)
    • Highland Elementary School (2020)
    • Pine Jog Elementary School (2012)

    USDOE Logo

    Schools are strongly encouraged to apply and participate in the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Green School Designation Program to recognize sustainability efforts. 

    • Before applying, complete a Sustainable Schools Action Plan (this counts as your Environmental Self-Assessment in the FDEP application)

    • To become a State Designated Green School, complete the initial application HERE. (Designations are good for two years)

    • After your initial award, there are three tiers of Green Designations for schools: Bronze, Silver, and Gold. Application information can be found HERE.

    • Schools in the Florida Green Designation program are eligible for national recognition from the US Department of Education's Green Ribbon Awards.

    Email sustainability@palmbeachschools.org for help with your application.