State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson nominated Hughes Middle School on Friday–along with four other schools in the state–to become recognized as a U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School.

The program, initiated by the federal government last year, is a simple recognition award that honor schools in which environmental sustainability and education are not only up to par but unparalleled.

“These outstanding schools are proof that every school day can provide teachable moments about protecting and sustaining our environment,” Torlakson said. “As a science teacher myself, I’m thrilled to see how these schools are taking what we know about good environmental practices and putting them to work right on campus.”

Hughes has had a deep history in the green movement. The school not only received a perfect score of 100 according to Energy Star ratings, the school has a heavily involved Green Team comprised of students, teachers and volunteers who help create recycling programs, waste reduction programs and water-wise landscaping projects.

Last year, they implemented a “No Trash Day” that reduced the school’s trash from 800 pounds to 245 pounds for the day. They encouraged the use of reusable cups and containers, as well as the collection of recyclable materials and food waste for composting and farm animal feed.

“Being a finalist for the national Green Ribbon School Award has been made possible because of the dedication of our amazing Green Team parent volunteers, teachers, staff and most importantly our students who have demonstrated their commitment to being stewards of their environment,” said Hughes Middle School Principal Sally Gregory. “They are forging a legacy to be environmentally and ecologically responsible, contributing to a healthy school environment and world.”

For more information regarding Hughes’ Green Team, please contact Cathy Procopio at 562-673-2401, or Lisa Harris at 562-570-4694.

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