School earns national Green Ribbon Award

Coebourn Elementary School in Penn-Delco SD is the only school in Pennsylvania to receive the Green Ribbon Award from the U.S. Department of Education. According to an article in Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, the honor is given to schools and districts that significantly reduce their environmental impact to create a healthier learning environment and real-world sustainability education. The SD of Philadelphia is also a recipient this year. In Coeburn’s nomination package, the school described pending LEED certification of its facility, which contains a geothermal HVAC system. Teachers use the facility’s technology as part of the curriculum to teach about geothermal energy and efficient electrical systems. The school also mentioned its Green Committee, which is tasked with promoting monthly activities focused on health and environmental awareness. Schoolwide community service projects and hands-on activities are also cited as helping promote environmental stewardship and educating students on these issues. Read the full nomination package here.