Old Trail School was named one of 58 schools in the United States and only two schools in Ohio as a Green Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education on April 22, 2015 – Earth Day. The School was recognized for its significant achievements in the area of environmental sustainability as it relates to curriculum, facility and school operations. Old Trail School was nominated by the Ohio Department of Education for this award in a process that began last fall.

Green Ribbon School awards have been given since 2012 and recognize schools and school districts for exemplary efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, promote better health, and ensure effective environmental education.

“These honorees are compelling examples of the ways schools can help children build real-world skillsets, cut school costs, and provide healthy learning environments,” Duncan said. “U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools are an inspiration and deserve the spotlight for embodying strong examples of innovative learning and civic engagement.”

Old Trail School was recognized for creating a model for school environmental sustainability that focuses on five major components: facility, food, operations, recycling and water. The School reducing its carbon footprint while introducing students to their natural world through hands-on, collaborative science lessons, gardening (on the School’s 2-acre organic farm) and habitat restoration.

“We are indeed honored to be selected as a Green Ribbon School,” said John Farber, Head of School. “Our students truly embrace our School’s mission of environmental sustainability and actively take part in lessons and activities that make them aware of their responsibility to take care of our natural environment. Our entire community is excited to be recognized and we look forward to sharing our resources with other schools and students in our region.”