Sligo Middle School has been selected as a recipient of the 2016 U.S. Green Ribbon Schools Award. The Silver Spring school is among 47 winning schools from across the nation.

The Green Ribbon Schools Award program, established in 2011, is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) and recognizes schools that save energy, reduce costs, feature environmentally sustainable learning spaces, protect health, foster wellness, and offer environmental education to boost academic achievement and community engagement.

“This award is a reflection of our district’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that all MCPS schools and facilities are environmentally friendly and foster healthy and productive learning environments,” said Interim Superintendent Larry A. Bowers. “Congratulations to the staff and students of Sligo Middle School on receiving this award.”

Through the School Energy and Recycling Team (SERT), students at Sligo implement energy conservation practices and lead recycling efforts throughout the school. Additionally, through its environmental literacy curriculum, the school is connecting students to the Sligo Creek watershed and has created an outdoor classroom with gardens in its courtyard so that students can learn outside year-long.

“This award is an acknowledgement of the tireless efforts that our students, staff and parents have put in to ensure Sligo is a school that is making an impact on the future of our community,” stated Sligo Middle School Principal Cary Dimmick. “This is truly an honor for our school and our community and I couldn’t be more proud.”

Five other Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) have received the national Green Ribbon Schools Award since its inception: Northwest High School in 2015, Travilah Elementary School in 2014, Cedar Grove and Summit Hall elementary schools in 2013, and Francis Scott Key Middle School in 2012. MCPS also was selected as the recipient of the District Sustainability Award in 2013, which recognizes school systems that demonstrate a comprehensive approach to sustainability.

In his blog post announcing the winners, Secretary of Education John King, Jr. wrote, “During a year of renewed attention to the state of our nation’s school infrastructure, I hope other schools, districts, and postsecondary institutions can take heart and inspiration from our 2016 honorees’ efforts, this year, more than ever.”

The 2016 Green Ribbon Schools Award was presented to 47 schools, 15 districts, and 11 postsecondary institutions across the county.