PGCPS Sustainability Efforts Continue to Shine with Statewide Recognition

PGCPS' sustainability efforts are again in the spotlight as Berwyn Heights Elementary School was honored by the Maryland State Board of Education and Maryland State Department of Education for its status as one of three of Maryland’s 2025 nominees for the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools (ED-GRS) Award.

The Green Ribbon Award celebrates schools for their work to reduce environmental impact, protect student health and well-being, and strengthen environmental literacy. At Berwyn Heights, sustainability is not a side project — it’s part of the school’s culture. From student-led composting and pollinator habitat gardens to hands-on watershed education, the school community has worked for nearly two decades to weave environmental responsibility into daily life.

“Our students are learning to be stewards of the environment from their earliest years, and their school community is modeling what it means to make a real, lasting impact,” said principal Amanda Alerich. “This nomination reflects the powerful work of educators, students, and families who are committed to building a greener, healthier future.”

Throughout the school, conservation efforts have led to measurable reductions in energy and water usage. The school has installed energy-efficient lighting, monitored plumbing for efficiency, and adjusted HVAC systems to reduce consumption. Staff and students work together to power down unused electronics and incorporate sustainability into daily routines.

Outdoor learning is also central to Berwyn Heights' approach. With support from the Town of Berwyn Heights, the school has developed and maintained outdoor spaces including a sensory garden, pollinator garden, and an outdoor classroom that enhance both education and well-being.

Leading the State in Green Schools

This spring, 27 PGCPS schools renewed their Maryland Green School award and five schools earned the recognition for the first time. With these additions, the district now boasts 154 Maryland Green Schools — the highest number of any school system in the state.

The recognition aligns with the district’s Climate Change Action Plan, which outlines a path to reduce the carbon footprint, expand renewable energy, and integrate climate education into the classroom.

Across the district, progress is happening on multiple fronts:

• Energy Efficiency: More than $2 million captured in EmPower Maryland rebates for new school construction projects.
• Carbon Reduction: Over $4 million in grants supporting net-zero energy schools and forthcoming rooftop solar installations.
• Clean Transportation: $5.2 million in funding secured for 10 electric buses, with more applications underway.
• Waste Reduction: Compost programs expanded to 29 schools, diverting nearly half a million pounds of material from landfills.
• Climate Education: Integration of climate change and environmental justice into teacher training, supported by student-led projects and partnerships with local and national organizations.

From net-zero energy schools to outdoor learning spaces and composting programs, PGCPS is shaping a sustainable future for its students and the community. Berwyn Heights’ nomination is the latest reminder that environmental leadership is thriving in classrooms across the county.