BCMS among first US Education Dept. Green Ribbon winners

Bethlehem Central Middle School is among 78 schools nationwide that were recently named U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools.

"This is a great honor for the Bethlehem Central School District and is a sign of our commitment to offering a true 21st century learning experience," said Superintendent Dr. Thomas Douglas.

The Green Ribbon Schools program recognizes schools that save energy, reduce costs, feature environmentally sustainable learning spaces, protect health, foster wellness, and offer environmental education to boost academic achievement and community engagement.

“It feels great to be recognized for the work we have done in regards to raising environmental awareness, not only in the middle school but across the district. This has really been a team effort across the district. We've had tremendous support from our administration, staff and students,” said Green Team Coordinator and BCMS Assistant Principal Mark Warford.

Middle School Principal Mike Klugman emphasized the teamwork throughout the district necessary to to be honored with such an award.

"This national recognition proves that all of our initiatives are made easier when we have the support of a team behind us," he said.

The 78 awarded schools were named winners from among nearly 100 nominees submitted by 30 state education agencies, the District of Columbia and the Bureau of Indian Education. More than 350 schools completed applications to their state education agencies.

“Science and environmental education play a central role in providing children with a well-rounded education that prepares them for the jobs of the future,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, upon bestowing the award to BCMS. “Green Ribbon Schools demonstrate compelling examples of the ways schools can expand their coursework while also helping children build real world skill sets, cut school costs, and provide healthy learning environments.”

For more information on the Green Team, visit its site here.

Click below to play video of the award announcement by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.

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