Outdoor and Environmental Education → Green Schools

    Maryland Green Schools Program

    The Maryland Green Schools Award Program recognizes Maryland schools that:

    • Include environmental education in the curricula,
    • Model best management practices at the school,
    • Address community environmental issues.

    The program was developed by a diverse team of educators representing the Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education (MAEOE), Office of the Governor, the Maryland Association of Student Councils, Maryland Department of Education, Department of Natural Resources and Maryland Department of the Environment, and is administered through MAEOE.

    MCPS continues its impressive leadership in environmental education and stewardship, with 10 additional schools earning the prestigious 2026 Maryland Green Schools designation, bringing the district's total to an impressive 123 certified Green Schools. This remarkable achievement signifies that 58 percent of all MCPS schools have now attained this recognition, surpassing the 50 percent target set by Montgomery County’s Climate Action Plan. This success underscores MCPS's proactive commitment and the dedicated efforts of our schools to cultivate environmental literacy and promote sustainable practices. Environmental Sustainability Management Plan  

    “MCPS schools are encouraged to seek Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education (MAEOE) Green School Certification. This voluntary certification program promotes learning that incorporates local environmen­tal issue investigation and professional development with environmental best management practices and community stewardship.”

    The Lathrop E. Smith Center, home office of OEEP, is one of two MCPS Maryland Green Centers, as is SERT. We work together with partners to help our schools become and maintain Green School status because it is good for the students and good for the environment.

    Schools interested in becoming a MD Green School complete an application process that documents the school's program and activities during a two-year period. A panel reviews the applications and an award celebration is held in the spring.  The superintendent of schools receives a list of all new Green Schools.(from http://dnr2.maryland.gov/Education/pages/greenschools.aspx)

    For detailed information about becoming a Green School, please visit: http://maeoe.org/green-schools/  

    MCPS teachers can contact Mark Granger for additional support and assistance

    Professional Development for MD Green Schools Certification

    Here are a few of the places that can assist with providing that learning for staff and students:

    •  All OEEP workshops (see PDO – new listings twice a year)  and all OEEP programs
    •  SERT (Contact the SERT office to make arrangements)
    •  Nature Forward
    •  Teacher Workshops for Green School Certification and Environmental Literacy - offered by the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin.