The U.S. Department of Education announced on May 16 that the Superior School District the recipient of the 2018 Green Ribbon Award.

The Office of Public Instruction chose the Superior School District to be Montana’s nominee in the Green Ribbon program after they submitted a strong application to the OPI.

“We are proud to receive the 2018 Green Ribbon School award as it reflects the conscious efforts our district is making every day in promoting eco-stewardship, conservation and the use of renewable resources.

“As we truly live in ‘the last, best place,’ we have a responsibility to educate our children as future stewards of Montana’s vast natural resources and environment while promoting healthy lifestyles. STEM-based learning activities coupled with educational opportunities found outside classroom doors, drive our curriculum and after-school program offerings. Even though our school is a very small, rural place, we continue to grow positive change one student at a time,” Superior Schools Superintendent Scott Kinney said Wednesday.

“Congratulations to Superior schools for earning this national recognition and for making Montana proud,” State Superintendent Elsie Arntzen said Wednesday. “Incorporating health and wellness into conservation education gives Superior students hope for their future.”

According to the U.S. Department of Education, the aim of the Green Ribbon Schools program is to inspire schools, districts and higher education institutions to strive for 21st century excellence by highlighting promising practices and resources that all can employ. The award recognizes schools, districts, and higher education institutions that: 1. Reduce environmental impact and costs; 2. Improve the health and wellness of schools, students, and staff; and 3. Provide effective environmental and sustainability education.

The Superior School District has focused on incorporating sustainable resources into their schools as well as implementing conservation, sustainability, and outdoor education programs. A summary of Superior’s programs can be found here. Across the country, 46 schools, six districts, and six postsecondary institutions are being honored for their innovative efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, improve health and wellness, and ensure effective sustainability education.

The honorees were named from a pool of candidates nominated by 25 states and the Department of Defense Department of Education Activity. The selectees include 40 public schools, including two magnet schools and two charter schools, as well as six nonpublic schools. Forty-five percent of the 2018 honorees serve a disadvantaged student body.

Kinney also received a letter from the U.S. Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos. The letter read:

“Congratulations on your recognition as a 2018 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School District Sustainability Awardee. This award acknowledges your district’s achievements in taking a comprehensive approach to sustainability.

“Your recognition affirms the commitment your district has made to reducing operational costs and being a good steward of our land, all while offering inspiring, healthy and safe instructional environments. Honorees have found innovative ways to encourage wellness practices, from school-grown gardens to outdoor physical activity to school-based health centers. Honorees are also using real-world problems in their communities and around the globe to engage students in hands-on, authentic learning about the world around them, preparing them to take on the careers and challenges of the future.

“Your success shows what is possible when each school division engages with community partners, leverages local resources and pursues effective innovations. The Department looks forward to celebrating your accomplishments during the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools recognition events on Sept. 19, 2018.

“Sincerely, Betsy DeVos.”