Green Schools

Maryland Green Schools consistently demonstrate innovative approaches in environmental education and a commitment to a sustainable future for all Maryland communities.

Apply to Green Schools

SCHOOLS

38% of Maryland's schools are Green Schools.

Partners

Maryland Green Centers provide support for Green Schools.

About Maryland Green Schools

The Maryland Green Schools program empowers educators to incorporate meaningful environmental literacy into their curriculum, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the places we live, learn, and play. The program teaches future generations to evaluate the impact of human choices, develop real-world solutions, and take meaningful action to reduce environmental harm. The Green Schools designation also means that your school is part of a larger network of sustainability partners who are committed to creating deeper connections between students, the community, and Maryland’s unique environmental ecosystems.

The History of Green Schools

The Maryland Green Schools Act of 2019 legislation was passed with bi-partisan support in the House and the Senate. The legislation helps to realize the vision of Maryland’s environmental literacy requirement and the sustainable schools goal in the Chesapeake Bay Agreement. Established in 1999, the Maryland Green Schools Program is a nationally acclaimed initiative dedicated to fostering sustainability within schools.

Green Schools Directory

Title	Address	Description	Link	Years	County

Maryland Green Schools renew their awards every four years. The years listed for each school indicate when that school first received the Green School Award and their subsequent renewals. Schools achieve Sustainable status after four applications, Sustainable Bronze after five applications, Sustainable Silver after six applications, Sustainable Gold after seven applications, and Sustainable Evergreen status after eight applications. Award renewals are an indicator that teachers, students, and the school community are continually moving forward with green actions and building sustainable practices.

For all the information and resources you need to apply for or renew a Maryland Green School award, please visit our portal at www.marylandgreenschools.org.

Annual Progress Report and Evaluation

As part of MAEOE's State Appropriation, a yearly external evaluation is conducted to assess the growth and development of Maryland Green Schools across the state.

In the first year of state funding, this evaluation primarily focused on quantitatively assessing progress toward the goal of 50% of Maryland schools achieving Green School awards. Specifically, it compared the characteristics of schools that have achieved awards with those that haven't. This comparative analysis aimed to provide insights into the program's current status, identify areas of strength, and uncover opportunities for further growth.

The 2024 and 2025 evaluations were carried out by Human Nature.

Maryland Green Schools Program Annual Evaluation 2024-2025

Apply

The Maryland Green Schools Application Portal is your gateway to applying for Green Schools designation, renewing your award, and accessing Green Schools resources. The Maryland Green Schools Application Guide can help you get started.

Support

Maryland Green Centers are recognized organizations that educate schools, teachers, and parents about the Green Schools application process. Green Leaders are individuals who serve as volunteer Green Schools guides and mentors.

Youth Summit

The annual Green Schools Youth Summit is an exciting opportunity for students, teachers, and organizations to celebrate their Green Schools accomplishments and engage in hands-on activities with resource providers from around the state.