As Kermit the Frog said, “It isn’t easy being green.” Nevertheless, over the past several years, Eden Prairie Schools has made a concerted effort to reduce environmental impact, promote community health, and provide high-quality environmental educational programming.
In recognition of its efforts and leadership in these initiatives, the district has been honored with a 2024 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools award, becoming the only Minnesota recipient this year.
The award was announced on April 26 by Gov. Tim Walz. “From harnessing clean energy to harvesting locally grown foods, Minnesota schools and students continue to pave the way in addressing climate change,” Walz said in a press release.
“As the state continues to invest in our climate future, the next generation, with their deep commitment to developing sustainable climate solutions, is a driving force in meaningful change,” Walz continued. “Their impact cannot be understated, and I am grateful for this recognition of their hard work.”
The district’s environmental efforts include taking strategic steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the areas of heating, cooling and lighting. For instance, about 85% of the energy used by EP Schools comes from solar arrays installed on district buildings, as well as from local solar gardens.
EP Schools also recently upgraded its facilities to energy-saving technology, including LED lighting, occupancy sensors, plus high-efficiency restrooms and kitchen sinks to preserve water. By changing school start times, it reduced emissions by 15% in 2021, and all of the district’s buses have clean diesel engines.
To promote environmental health, the district has a full-service bakery and a farm-to-school program and converts would-be food waste to hog consumption. To promote mental and emotional health, the district partners with area providers to support students and staff with targeted services.
The district also builds sustainability and outdoor education into each student’s school experience, starting in elementary school. Middle and high school educational programming includes course offerings like environmental science, green engineering, science research and design, and botany and horticulture.
Minnesota Education Commissioner Willie Jett said, “Eden Prairie Schools demonstrates what it means to be a good steward of its environment and to build students’ knowledge about sustainable practices. Eden Prairie students also learn about the impact they can make on the environment and in their community.
“I congratulate Eden Prairie Public Schools on this prestigious recognition,” Jett continued. “Thank you for all your efforts in making Minnesota a better place for your students, your staff, your community – and for us all.”
EP Schools Superintendent Josh Swanson said, “I am so proud of the work of our teams to protect the environment and create safe, welcoming, and healthy spaces that support learning, while also embracing innovation and ensuring sustainability. As Commissioner Jett highlighted, our students, staff, families, and community all benefit from this commitment, and we are proud to carry it forward.”
EP Schools is among 41 schools, 10 districts, three post-secondary institutions and one early learning center across the country to receive this honor, with EP Schools earning the District Sustainability Award. The honorees were named from a pool of candidates nominated by 24 states.
The list of all selected schools, districts, colleges, and universities, as well as their nomination packages, can be found on the U.S. Department of Education website for all schools to move toward sustainable practices. A report with highlights of each of the honorees is also available.
For more information, visit the Minnesota Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools webpage or the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools website.
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