The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and the Illinois Green Alliance announced the opening of the 2024-25 application period for the Illinois Green Ribbon Schools Award. Schools across Illinois are invited to apply and showcase their achievements in environmental sustainability and education. The Illinois Green Ribbon Schools program honors schools that excel in reducing environmental impact and costs, promoting health and wellness, and providing comprehensive environmental education. Schools are assessed on their progress in each of the program’s three key pillars: 

• Reducing environmental impact and costs. 

• Improving health and wellness of schools, students, and staff. 

• Providing environmental education, which incorporates STEM, civic skills, and pathways to green careers.  

The top applicants from Illinois will be submitted to the U.S. Department of Education’s Green Ribbon Schools Program for national recognition. The U.S. Department of Education typically announces its winners on Earth Day, April 22, and extends invitations to a subsequent award ceremony in Washington, D.C. All application materials must be submitted by 5 p.m. on December 20, 2024. Contact greenribbon@isbe.net if you have questions or need further information.