Maryland green Center program



2020-2021 Guide2286001143000Maryland green Center program A guide for the Maryland Green Center Application. The application has been broken into sections so that you can print off the parts as needed.Use this guide if you are submitting the following:1st application (NEW)2nd or 3rd application (RECERTIFYING)4th application (SUSTAINABLE)Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education 941000Maryland green Center program A guide for the Maryland Green Center Application. The application has been broken into sections so that you can print off the parts as needed.Use this guide if you are submitting the following:1st application (NEW)2nd or 3rd application (RECERTIFYING)4th application (SUSTAINABLE)Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education 83820431800SY2021 COVID Modification: Throughout this guide, review the gold boxes to see how the Green Centers program has been modified this year due to COVID-19. We anticipate that the application process for the 2021-2022 SY will revert to the original application process, without modifications.SY2021 COVID Modification: Throughout this guide, review the gold boxes to see how the Green Centers program has been modified this year due to COVID-19. We anticipate that the application process for the 2021-2022 SY will revert to the original application process, without modifications.Contents TOC \o "1-3" \h \z \u Introduction2 HYPERLINK \l "CovidAppSummary" Green School Application Summary – SY2021 COVID19 Modifications3Getting Started4 HYPERLINK \l "AppChecklistNew_Recertifying" Green Center Application Objectives Checklist (New & Recertifying) ………………………………………………………………………………. PAGEREF _Toc494456369 \h Error! Bookmark not defined. HYPERLINK \l "AppChecklistSustainable" Green Center Application Objectives Checklist (Sustainable) ………………………………….……………………………………………………….6 HYPERLINK \l "_Guide_to_Maryland" Guide to Green Center Documentation……………………………… ………………………………….………………………………………………….…….7Objective 1: Systemic Sustainability71.1 Professional Development of Teachers81.2 Professional Development81.3 Promoting the Maryland Green Schools program91.4 Supporting MD Green Schools91.4.1 Sustainable Practices Support101.4.2 MD Green School Application Support101.4.3 Center Based or School Environmental Student Programs111.5 Center-Wide Environmental Behavior Changes (Optional)12Objective 2: Student-driven Sustainability Practices122.1. Water Conservation/Pollution Prevention132.2. Energy Conservation142.3. Solid Waste Reduction142.4. Habitat Restoration152.5. Structures for Environmental Learning152.6. Responsible Transportation152.7. Healthy School Environment15Objective 3: Community Partnerships, Awards and Special Recognition163.1. Community Partnerships PAGEREF _Toc494456388 \h 173.2. Awards and Special Recognition (Optional) PAGEREF _Toc494456389 \h 18 HYPERLINK \l "MDGSAppTimetable" Maryland Green Center Application Table PAGEREF _Toc494456390 \h 817830802089150011430022796500 HYPERLINK \l "COVIDAddendumforSchools" COVID-19 Addendum for Schools During the 2020-2021 PAGEREF _Toc494456391 \h Error! Bookmark not defined.Introduction The Green Center Award recognizes Outdoor Schools and Nature Centers that model sustainable practices and support schools with implementation of environmental education. The MAEOE Green Center (GC) program was initiated in 2003 to support a growing Maryland Green Schools program. The Maryland Green School award program allows a school to demonstrate that by integrating hands-on, inquiry-based instruction, youth are empowered to practically apply knowledge. The program is designed to highlight achievements and progress that schools are making towards environmental sustainability, aligned with the Maryland Environmental Literacy graduation requirement as set forth in COMAR 13A.04.17.01 and the Environmental Literacy Goal established in the Chesapeake Bay Agreement. MAEOE encourages, engages, and empowers the community to understand, responsibly use and promote the natural world.Green Centers offer professional learning opportunities to teachers, model sustainable practices and have activities and learning opportunities for visitors. Green Centers are a partner for success for schools going through the Maryland Green Schools application process. Green Centers are experienced with the Maryland Green School Application and can show how their programs and trainings align with and can be integrated into a successful application. Green Center Staff can answer questions about the application and can introduce the program to a school that is considering becoming a Maryland Green School. Green Centers are all involved in the preservation of the state’s unique natural resources, particularly those of the Chesapeake Bay and its watershed. This application provides an opportunity for an outdoor school or nature center to demonstrate that they can effectively support schools with the MAEOE Maryland Green School Application process in all three objectives. In addition, MAEOE and the Green Centers are collaborating with MSDE to support environmental literacy in schools.Green Center staff members should be prepared to provide appropriate guidance about how to effectively infuse environmental literacy within lessons and units of instruction.As part of the Green School application, we are encouraging schools to make connections with Maryland College and Career Ready Standards including:NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards) curriculumC3 curriculumSTEAM curriculum (Science Technology Engineering Arts and Math)Pressing environmental issues including climate change, decreasing biodiversity, nitrogen cycle, aquifer depletion, endangered species, habitat loss and other issuesMeaningful Watershed Educational Experience Throughout the application, you will find examples that show some of these connections 0167640SY2021 COVID Modification: Throughout this guide, review the gold boxes to see how the Green Centers program has been modified this year. SY2021 COVID Modification: Throughout this guide, review the gold boxes to see how the Green Centers program has been modified this year. Administrative ItemsIntent to Apply form and $100 fee due December 18, 2021Cover Sheet – include with application and in a separate email due March 17, 2022Brief Summary – in application, embed a short description about your center and its green cultureTop 5 Accomplishments – in application and Metrics Survey, embed one sentence per accomplishmentMetrics Survey – View the PDF version of the data you will need, then enter it in one sitting into the on-line survey. Application will be presented in a Chart format (see example here) - Photo documentation welcome, but not requiredMD Green Schools Youth Summit – to be determined Objective 1: Systemic SustainabilityProfessional Development of TeachersProvide professional development opportunities for local schools.Professional Development of Staff (at least 50% of staff)Center teachers/staff have participated in environmental PD during the past two years.1.3Promoting the MD Green School Program5026025159385Optional00OptionalAt least one example of how your Green Center promotes the MD Green School program.1.4.1Provide Sustainability Practice Support Provide support for school sustainability projects through funding, materials, technical support, contacts, partnering.1.4.2Support Schools’ Green School ApplicationProvide PD and enrichment opportunities for classroom teachers; familiarity with the Green Schools application.1.4.3Student ProgramsProvide environmental student programming for students.1.5Environmental Changes at the CenterDemonstrate the steps taken to continue being green.Objective 2: Student-driven Sustainability Practices - ModificationEight actions in two or more practices. The Sustainability Practices must be incorporated into the Center’s programs and used as models and tools for instructions. Chart activity with name, date,1-2 sentence description, and metrics EXAMPLES IN ADDENDUM.2.1Water Conservation/Water Pollution Prevention2.2Energy Conservation2.3Solid Waste Reduction2.4Habitat Restoration2.5Structures for Environmental Learning 2.6Responsible Transportation2.7Healthy Home/School Environment2.8Citizen Science / Community ScienceObjective 3: Community Partnerships, Awards, and Special RecognitionChart with partner name, date, 1-2 sentence description of activity or project3.1Community Partnerships At least two ongoing, sustained partnerships where a partner is active in the school.3.2Awards and Special Recognition (Optional)Describe any awards received for greening activities MDGS Sustainable Center App. Summary – SY2021 COVID19 ModificationsGetting StartedEstablish your Center’s green baseline by making a list of all the Center’s green activities from the past two years, including photos. This will help you put your application together.Electronically log your Center’s information and documentation by setting up a website, Weebly, Prezi, Power Point, or similar method. This can be updated by staff members as events/training/practices/programs/partnerships occur over the two-year process. If this is your first certification, you will need information and documentation from this school year and the previous school year (2019-2021).412877024130000If this is your second recertification or beyond, include information and documentation form this school year and the previous school year (fall 2019-spring 2021); you may also include information and documentation from fall 2017-spring 2019.Applications must be electronic – either a website (using Weebly, Google Sites, or similar) or a presentation (using Power Point, Google Slides, or similar). For electronic templates and examples of past applications, visit the Green Center Application page on the MAEOE website. Maryland Green Centers are required to input their center’s Sustainable Practices into our Metrics Collection Survey. This will allow MAEOE to quantify Maryland’s green achievements through data tracking (e.g. the number of trees planted, miles of streams cleaned, pounds of trash collected). This data can then be used to find inspiration in other school and center’s projects and see the impact MD Green Centers have on the environment. File your Intent to Apply and pay the fee by December 18, 2020. The fee of $100 must be paid to MAEOE either by check or credit card. Review the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the Green School Application page on the MAEOE website for additional information. For specific inquiries, email greenschools@ For more information please go to green-centers or contact greenschools@Application Checklist: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Application (New & Recertifying)Complete and submit the following required application materials.Intent to Apply Form and Fee: Complete the Intent to Apply form on the MAEOE website and pay the $100 fee to MAEOE by December 18, 2020. Mail checks payable to MAEOE or pay by credit card online. Cover Sheet: Download and complete the cover sheet, which must have an original signature by the head of your organization. Submit this separately from your application, either by email. You may also embed it into your application. One-page summary: In your application, include a brief description (no more than one page) of your center’s green culture and the examples of sustainable changes that the center has made to become five accomplishments: In your application and in the Metrics Survey (see below), include a bullet list for each accomplishment that will be read at the Youth Summit Awards Ceremony. Limit your description to one sentence per accomplishment.Metrics Survey: Review the PDF of the Metrics Survey to gather all needed information, then, complete the online Metrics Survey. This data allows MAEOE to quantify green achievements (e.g. the number of trees planted, miles of streams cleaned, pounds of trash collected, etc.), shows the impact of Maryland Green Centers on the environment, and provides inspiration to other centers. Objectives 1, 2 and 3: Three separate reviewers will evaluate your application using this rubric. Your documentation must be fully explained with appropriate documentation; remember to include dates and number of students involved. See detailed information below on each of the objectives. Submit by March 17, 2022. Email all electronic applications to applications@ by 11:59pm on March 17, 2022. Your submission must include the following:Cover Sheet – embedded into the application and attached as a separate PDFOne-Page SummaryOne-Page Goal SummaryTop 5 AccomplishmentsDocumentation for Objectives 1, 2 and 3 If you are submitting your 4th application (Sustainable) please include the Goal Statement.Applications received after March 17, 2021 will not be reviewed.You will receive a confirmation email by no later than two weeks after you submit your application. If you do not receive this confirmation, please send an email to applications@. Thank you for your interest in the Maryland Green School award program which demonstrates your school’s progress with the Maryland Environmental Literacy requirement as set forth in COMAR 13A.04.17.Maryland Green School Youth Summit (Date TBD)This is a celebration for schools with successful Green Schools applications which includes fun activities, vendors, and time to explore the park. More info can be found here. Application Checklist: 4th Application (Sustainable)Complete and submit the following required application materials.Intent to Apply Form and Fee: Complete the Intent to Apply form on the MAEOE website and pay the $100 fee to MAEOE by December 18, 2020. Mail checks payable to MAEOE or pay by credit card online. Cover Sheet: Download and complete the cover sheet, which must have an original signature by the head of your organization. Submit this separately from your application, either by email. You may also embed it into your application. One-page summary: In your application, include a brief description (no more than one page) of your center’s green culture and the examples of sustainable changes that the center has made to become greener.One-page goal summary: In your application, please describe your green center goals for the next 4 years, in a one-page outline. In the outline, include how to make them successful, the people who will be involved, and what outcomes you expect from the five accomplishments: In your application and in the Metrics Survey (see below), include a bullet list for each accomplishment that will be read at the Youth Summit Awards Ceremony. Limit your description to one sentence per accomplishment.Metrics Survey: Review the PDF of the Metrics Survey to gather all needed information, then, complete the online Metrics Survey. This data allows MAEOE to quantify green achievements (e.g. the number of trees planted, miles of streams cleaned, pounds of trash collected, etc.), shows the impact of Maryland Green Centers on the environment, and provides inspiration to other centers. Objectives 1, 2 and 3: Three separate reviewers will evaluate your application using this rubric. Your documentation must be fully explained with appropriate documentation; remember to include dates and number of students involved. See detailed information below on each of the objectives. Submit by March 17, 2022. Email all electronic applications to applications@ by 11:59pm on March 17, 2021. Your submission must include the following:Cover Sheet – embedded into the application and attached as a separate PDFOne-Page SummaryOne-Page Goal SummaryTop 5 AccomplishmentsDocumentation for Objectives 1, 2 and 3If you are submitting your 4th application (Sustainable) please include the Goal Statement.Applications received after March 17, 2022 are not guaranteed a review.You will receive a confirmation email by no later than two weeks after you submit your application. If you do not receive this confirmation, please send an email to applications@. Thank you for your interest in the Maryland Green School award program which demonstrates your school’s progress with the Maryland Environmental Literacy requirement as set forth in COMAR 13A.04.17.Maryland Green School Youth Summit (Date TBD)This is a celebration for schools with successful Green Schools applications which includes fun activities, vendors, and time to explore the park. More info can be found here. Guide to Maryland Green Center DocumentationThe key to remember is that with this application you are documenting all the work and activities that you are doing throughout your center. You must document EVERYTHING that you say in your application, this includes captions with text explaining the grade level/subject area and any necessary explanation of the activity. Applications are reviewed by professionals who do not know your center, they will follow a rubric and will only have the information that you provide.If you say something, but do not include documentation (proof) of it, that information will not be considered towards receiving your certification.DO:DON’T:Make sure that everything you say is backed up by documentation! Caption every piece of documentation:datenumber of people involved (specific names of staff required for PD)description of activityUse strong documentation:photosstudent work/reflectionsdated correspondence (with student involvement proven if necessary)newspaper/newsletter articles reporting on a completed activitycertificates/awards(for PD): agendas with sign-in sheets(for PD): certificates of completion/participation(for PD): email registrations/ confirmations of attendanceInclude any information without documenting Include uncaptioned documentationInclude lesson plans for an objective without other documentation (ONLY include if accompanied by other documentation that proves the activity actually happened and shows how the students were involved/responded to the activity)Include documentation that does not prove an activity happened. It does not strengthen the application (and may, in fact, weaken it). Examples of non-documentation that should not be included:images copied off the internet (instead, use photos of students at work)descriptions of programs copied off the internet (instead, use students’ photos or reflections about the program)flyers or emails advertising PD’s (instead, use specific proof that a specific staff member attended the PD)Objective 1: Systemic Sustainability left358775SY2021 COVID Modification: NONESuggestion: For documentation, consider using images of virtual learning and electronically submitted projects if photos are not possible.00SY2021 COVID Modification: NONESuggestion: For documentation, consider using images of virtual learning and electronically submitted projects if photos are not possible.Curriculum and Instruction, Professional Development, and Celebration1.1 Professional Development of Teachersleft825500MD Green Centers must demonstrate that they are conducting or facilitating professional development for teachers at the Green Center or by going to the school Required: Provide Professional Development Opportunities for local schools. Examples: Activities that enhance environmental awareness, literacy, knowledge, skills, and/or related instructional strategies. Partner with outside organizations to deliver Professional Development (e.g. Project WET, Chesapeake Classrooms, POW!, Master Naturalist, Project Learning Tree, Food, Land and People, etc.). Find more examples on the MAEOE Professional Development CalendarLesson modeling or planning in classroomsEnvironmental speakers presenting at staff meetings or workshops (school wide assemblies with students do NOT count as Professional Development)Environmental Education focused webinars48463206223000Integrating pressing environmental concerns including climate change, decreasing biodiversity, nitrogen cycle and other issues into the classroomConnecting NGSS, STEAM and C3 to environmental instructionIdeas for Documentation:agendaspromotional flyersemails about the training sign-in sheetsright502285SY2021 COVID Modification: NONESuggestion: Utilize online trainings that focus on learning through environmental literacy.0SY2021 COVID Modification: NONESuggestion: Utilize online trainings that focus on learning through environmental literacy.photos at Professional Development session1.2 Professional Development MD Green Centers should have staff members that are involved in their own professional growth on a yearly basis. Information should include dates, length of time and name of the participant, name of the workshop or professional development attended.Required:At least 50% of center teachers/staff have participated in Environmental Professional Development during the past two years. Each activity should include at least one piece of labeled documentation.Examples:Staff member(s) attend(s) MAEOE conference Staff attend environmental education workshops (For example: Project WET, Chesapeake Classrooms, POW!, Master Naturalist, Project Learning Tree, Food, Land and People, etc.). HYPERLINK "" More examples provided on the MAEOE Professional Development CalendarMaintenance staff take Integrated Pest Management (IPM)Environmental landscaping courseNational Association for Interpreters training with environmental component 4069080134620Energy saving presentation given at a staff meeting by BGE, USGBC, EPA Energy Star Program, and other professionalsEnvironmental webinars/TED TalksCollaborative or Strategic Planning with staff to discuss and strategic plan about the Environmental mission of the organization or the sustainability of the centerMD Green School Reviewer TrainingIdeas for Documentation:AgendasCertificates of completion or participationEmail confirmations/registrationsright302895SY2021 COVID Modification: NONESuggestion: Consider ways to promote the Green Schools program virtually through a Center newsletter or website.00SY2021 COVID Modification: NONESuggestion: Consider ways to promote the Green Schools program virtually through a Center newsletter or website.Sign-in sheets1.3 Promoting the Maryland Green Schools programAs a Maryland Green Center, you are required to promote the MAEOE Maryland Green School program. MAEOE expects every center to have MD Green School program. Green Centers should promote the MD Green School program to the schools with which you currently work. Green Centers can use their connection to the MD Green School program as an introduction to schools with which the Center would like to begin work. Required: right645160SY2021 COVID Modification: 1.4.1: OPTIONAL; 1.4.2 and 1.4.3: NONESuggestion: Consider ways to support the Maryland Green School Program virtually.00SY2021 COVID Modification: 1.4.1: OPTIONAL; 1.4.2 and 1.4.3: NONESuggestion: Consider ways to support the Maryland Green School Program virtually.One example of how your Green Center promotes the MD Green School program. Each activity should include at least one piece of labeled documentation.1.4 Supporting MD Green SchoolsDemonstrate how your center supports the MAEOE Maryland Green School Program. Required: Two examples of each of the following Maryland Green School supports: Sustainable Practices Support, MD Green School Application Support and Environmental Student Programs.right2759710SY2021 COVID Modification: OPTIONALSuggestion: Consider ways to support a school’s sustainable practices virtually.00SY2021 COVID Modification: OPTIONALSuggestion: Consider ways to support a school’s sustainable practices virtually.Your application will contain at least 6 examples. Each activity should include at least one piece of labeled documentation.Green Center staff members should be prepared to provide appropriate guidance about how to effectively infuse environmental literacy within lessons and units of instruction.As part of the Green School application, we are encouraging schools to make connections with Maryland College and Career Ready Standards including:NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards) curriculumC3 curriculumSTEAM curriculum (Science Technology Engineering Arts and Math)Pressing environmental issues including climate change, decreasing biodiversity, nitrogen cycle, aquifer depletion, endangered species, habitat loss and other issues1.4.1 Sustainable Practices Support right64198500Examples: Financial support and/or assisting with grant information and grant writing.Providing materials, trees, plants, volunteers.Building a Rain Barrel with a SchoolProviding curriculum resourcesProviding Nature Boxes for educatorsProviding or creating storm drain stenciling kits with a schoolProviding recycling containers Providing water and/or energy conservation signageProviding technical support for planning and implementation of projects.Providing contacts and connections to the appropriate resources.right381635SY2021 COVID Modification: NONESuggestion: Consider ways to support the Maryland Green School application process virtually.00SY2021 COVID Modification: NONESuggestion: Consider ways to support the Maryland Green School application process virtually.Partnering with schools to design solutions to environmental issues in the community.1.4.2 MD Green School Application Support Examples:Assist with the setup of an online applicationReview MD Green School Applications (including at the MAEOE Conference)Give Green School process presentation at schools Meet with School Green Team(s) to help put together an applicationAnswer emails and questions about the Green School ProcessEncourage/Support Staff to become trained as a Green Leader30480450215SY2021 COVID Modification: NONESuggestion: Consider ways to deliver programming virtually.00SY2021 COVID Modification: NONESuggestion: Consider ways to deliver programming virtually.Professional Development support (Objective 1.2 on the Green School Application)1.4.3 Center Based or School Environmental Student ProgramsEnvironmental student programming conducted at centersSchool-wide assembliesSchool-based programming at schoolsHosting High School InternshipsIdeas for Documentation: Photospromotional literatureagendasSchedule of school programming at center (e.g. calendar)-228604302760SY2021 COVID Modification: NONESuggestion: Consider ways your center has implemented center-wide environmental behavior changes.00SY2021 COVID Modification: NONESuggestion: Consider ways your center has implemented center-wide environmental behavior changes.NOT LESSON PLANSThere are three ways that a Green Center can support schools with MD Green School Application Objective 1.2.MD Green School application support offered by Green Center: At least 10% of a MD Green School’s staff members should have completed professional development. Teachers who complete professional development need documentation that can be included in their school’s application to become a MD Green School. Examples of support: Green Centers can provide professional development programs, send staff to the school to train teachers on a subject matter for use in the class, host external professional development opportunities or host a speaker series. As part of the MD Green School Application a majority of school staff needs to be engaged in some type of environmental learning.Examples of support: Promoting adult activities at the center to local schools can help them fulfill this requirement.All Staff at Green Schools must be familiar with the Green School Application process.Examples of support: Green Centers can provide this introduction at a staff meeting or other form of presentation.1.5 Center-Wide Environmental Behavior Changes (Optional)Demonstrate the steps your organization has taken to become green.Examples:Electronic newsletters and implementation of policies to reduce paper use (i.e., double-sided copying)Task lamps, day lighting (use of natural light), de-lamping (purposeful removal of ? of light bulbs), or energy saver mode on electronics used by all staff to save energyInstallation of energy-efficient lighting or motion-sensitive lightsIntegrated pest managementStaff carpooling or public transportation incentive programReduction of impervious surfaces (blacktop, concrete) in the schoolyardIdeas for Documentation:photos of the practices being implementedpoliciesblueprintsemail or other correspondenceleft292735SY2021 COVID Modification: YESFor each action, a minimum of 10 students must participate in the action. (Distance learning examples in appendix.)0SY2021 COVID Modification: YESFor each action, a minimum of 10 students must participate in the action. (Distance learning examples in appendix.)Objective 2: Student-driven Sustainability PracticesIn this section, the organization must demonstrate that students or other clients are participating in or learning about environmental practices done at your site. If your organization does not conduct instruction directly on the site, please show us the sustainable practices done off-site. We encourage you to quantify the impact of your sustainability practices as practicable.Required: Eight actions in two or more practices. For example, a center does two activities in 2.1, three activities in 2.2, one activity in 2.3 and two activities in 2.4. Each activity should be documented with a few sentences describing the activity, number of students/clients who participated, their ages and the date. Ideas for Documentation:Student work/reflectionsPhotos of students engaged in sustainability practicesphotos of students designing a sustainability practice (e.g., drawing the design for an outdoor classroom)photos of students working to build a sustainability practice (e.g., installing a rain barrel, painting bird boxes, creating energy saving posters)photos of students engaged in a sustainability practice activity (e.g., picking up litter, writing letters to administration or political representatives)photos of students maintaining a sustainability practice (e.g., weeding and watering a habitat garden)DO NOT USE: photos of students simply standing next to a sustainability practice (unless you also include photos of the students creating it and are just including it as the final product photo or culmination of the process) – the students need to be actively engaged.Videos Student-created blueprints/plansNewspaper/newsletter articlesCorrespondence planning a projectLesson plans – ONLY if accompanied by other documentation that proves the activity actually happened and shows how the students were involved/responded to the activity2.1. Water Conservation/Pollution PreventionIndoor and outdoor water usage and pollution prevention- smarter water use, stormwater management and erosion control, identifying and implementing solutions that reduce our impact on the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.Examples:Students are taken through a stormwater tour, viewing the stormwater infrastructure established in the centerStudents participate in a pervious concrete hands-on activity in a parking lotStudents remove litter from center grounds, local parks, and streams with the activityfocused on removing that litter before it reaches the waterways (stream restorationStudents learn about the rain garden or no mow zone at the siteStudents conduct erosion-control projects such as installing riparian buffer zones,planting trees or creating meadow habitatStudents learn about water saving techniques or grey water via signage near center sinks and water fountainsOther examples of how students are using the center to actively participate in learning how a watershed works and how it is affected by pollution2.2. Energy ConservationEnergy use and Climate Change. Examine facility and individual energy use, identifying and implementing solutions that reduce our carbon footprint.Examples:Students participate in a tour of the center’s solar panels or a discussion of alternative energy resources Students do an activity involving the center’s energy-saving practicesStudents do a center-wide scavenger hunt to find energy conservation sustainable practicesStudent do a daylight investigative measurement activityStudents perform classroom jobs to save energy, such as turning off lights & computers or closing the blinds (documentation could include a list of jobs posted in the classroom)Students learn about energy-saving techniques via labeled light switches2.3. Solid Waste ReductionResource use, waste disposal and waste management. Examine resource use, identifying and implementing solutions that reduce the waste stream.Examples:Students learn about and/or participate in center compostingStudents participate in “no-waste lunch” competition at the centerStudents weigh and compare personal waste while at the centerStudents repurpose used materials into art projectsStudents participate in litter pick-ups that focus on sorting recyclables out of the litterStudent jobs include regularly monitor, track, and/or manage the center recycling bins2.4. Habitat Restorationright18732500Native plant and animal habitat. Identifying and implementing solutions that improve or restore habitat, with education on the benefits to the local ecosystem or watershed.Examples:Students participate in native garden program/activityStudents plant native trees or native bay grassesright38862000Students tour the center grounds and learn about nesting boxes, rotting log habitat, oyster reef balls, no mow zones or other habitat restoration structuresInvasive plant removal projectsStudents plant or tend a pollinator garden on the center grounds (e.g. native plant, butterfly/pollinator gardens)Raising native species (e.g. trout or terrapins) in the classroom for release or plantingStudents learn about amended windows that prevent bird strikes 2.5. Structures for Environmental LearningDesigning and installing structures that encourage the use of outdoor space for environmental learning, restoring habitat, and returning habitat diversity.37871401079500Examples:Students regularly work outside in an outdoor classroom or outdoor parkStudents use an outdoor boardwalk, research boat, pavilion, nature trails, living shorelines, observation hives, green roof, etc. to learn about environmental educationStudents plant, maintain and/or harvest food in gardens at the center (salad tables, raised bed gardens, in-ground gardens, etc.)Students create outdoor artwork for schoolyard/outdoor classrooms2.6. Responsible TransportationDesigning and promoting responsible and healthy options for center and visitor transportation.Examples:Center policy is that all students are dropped off via busInformational signage displays reasoning for a no idle zoneStudents survey and analyze the carbon footprint of center transportation methodsCenter promotes and hosts students for international walk-to-school day4754880162560002.7. Healthy School Environment Promoting healthy indoor and outdoor environment by examining and using different types of cleaners, pesticides, lighting options, drinking water quality, ventilation, food sources, purchasing options, and maintenance choices.Examples:Sustainable eating activities and lessonsStudents participate in a community clean-upHealthy Snack program in lunchroomOutdoor activity and exercise programStudents learn how to make and use non-toxic or green cleaning productsCenter hosts an outdoor running or other health club that utilizes the center grounds and encourages the students to spend time outdoors.2.8 Citizen Science / Community ScienceExamples:Students create a poster campaign to share “Best Practices” with others to learn about mosquito prevention and protectionStudents create a poster that shares the purpose of their citizen science/community science project and data collected.Students find solutions to modify locations in their school yard which are impacted by water runoff during rain eventsStudents collect data about seasons as part of climate change citizen science and submit onlineStudents look for and collect data on native ladybugs and submit information onlineStudents survey trees on the school grounds and document their growth during the school year and submit information onlineStudents take surface temperature measurements during the school year around the school grounds to demonstrate the positive impact of the shade from trees and other vegetation Students monitor their school environment for potential mosquito-breeding habitats and continually eliminate these when feasibleStudents develop solutions to improve soil as needed if their investigations show trees and vegetation on school grounds are not growing as they shouldStudents create plans for landscaping on school grounds to increase the amount of green space and maximize the positive use of shade to reduce the urban heat island effects in their locationsGLOBE Schools: Have students participate in the International Virtual Science Symposium and share what they have learned with other students, teachers, and scientists from around the world. center1079500Objective 3: Community Partnerships, Awards and Special Recognitionleft271780SY2021 COVID Modification: NONESuggestion: Consider ways to partner with schools virtually.0SY2021 COVID Modification: NONESuggestion: Consider ways to partner with schools munity partnership are important for schools to be successful in building long-term sustainable practices.3.1. Community Partnerships Demonstrate how you are collaborating with a school, the community, and other partners. This may include examples listed in objective 1 showing how you have supported schools.Required:Two specific partnerships with schools or other community partners Examples: Providing environmental based programming for schoolsAssisting at school event (e.g. hosting a booth at an earth day celebration) Financial support and/or assisting with grant information and grant writingProviding materials, trees, plants, volunteersProviding technical support for planning and implementation of projectsProviding contacts and connections to the appropriate resources to help schools become more environmentally awarePartnering with schools to design solutions to environmental issues in the communityProviding projects suitable for students to earn Student Service-Learning hoursModeling, co-teaching, and/or creating lessons and activities with teachersProviding Professional Development Opportunities for TeachersAssist schools with the Green School ApplicationReceive a Grant to assist with Environmental Sustainability Projects (Grantor is the partner)Mentoring new Green Centers with their applicationsright13081000Partnering with other Green CentersPartnering with community or other organizations for clean ups and other environmental projectsIdeas for Documentation:Photos of students and community partners working together on an environmental education or sustainability practice activityStudent reflections about the activityNewspaper/newsletter articlesEmail or other correspondence with the partnerStudent work3.2. Awards and Special Recognition (Optional)Optional: Information here enhances your application. If your center has received awards or special recognition, include a few sentences describing the award. Each award should include at least one piece of documentation. Examples:Community Wildlife Habitat Award from NWF4076065381000County awards (e.g. “A” grade on recycling from the county)Measurable energy savings awardsNational awardsEnvironmental GrantsIdeas for Documentation:photos of the award or of a special recognition eventnewspaper/newsletter articlescopy of certificate/awardMaryland Green Centers Application TableStarting in school year 2020-2021, any school that has achieved Sustainable status will need to reapply every four years to maintain the Sustainable School status.?View this chart for the reapplication schedule by year.App#YearApplication TypeCertification Type1 - New2 - covering years 1 and 2RegularRegular2 - 1st Recertification6 - covering years 3 thru 6RegularRegular3 - 2nd Recertification 10 - covering years 7-10RegularRegular4 - 3rd Recertification14 - covering years 11-14Regular w/4 yr. goalsSustainable5 - 4th Recertification18 - covering years 15-18SustainableSustainable Bronze 6 - 5th Recertification22 - covering years 19-22SustainableSustainable Silver 7 - 6th Recertification 26 - covering years 23-26SustainableSustainable Gold 8- 7th & in perpetuity30 – and onwardSustainableSustainable EvergreenMAEOE Maryland Green School Contacts: Mary WestlundProgram Coordinatorgreenschools@Craig FreelandProgram Associateengagement@Elana KellnerProgram Associatecommunity@ left257810Due to the COVID 19 pandemic MAEOE has decided to modify the MD Green School application for the 2020-2021 school year. MAEOE understands this school year will bring challenges for centers, schools, students, teachers, parents, and administrators in unanticipated ways through the various distance learning models. If schools/centers that are due to recertify this school year are not able to take on this endeavor a one-year waiver will be granted, and recertification can be postponed until the 2021-2022 school year. For a school to receive the waiver, a written request from the principal and/or the school’s lead “green” teacher should be sent to greenschools@ by December 18, 2020.For a center to receive the waiver, a written request from the Center’s Green Lead or Director should be sent to greenschools@ by December 18, 2020.0Due to the COVID 19 pandemic MAEOE has decided to modify the MD Green School application for the 2020-2021 school year. MAEOE understands this school year will bring challenges for centers, schools, students, teachers, parents, and administrators in unanticipated ways through the various distance learning models. If schools/centers that are due to recertify this school year are not able to take on this endeavor a one-year waiver will be granted, and recertification can be postponed until the 2021-2022 school year. For a school to receive the waiver, a written request from the principal and/or the school’s lead “green” teacher should be sent to greenschools@ by December 18, 2020.For a center to receive the waiver, a written request from the Center’s Green Lead or Director should be sent to greenschools@ by December 18, 2020.COVID-19 ADDENDUM FOR SCHOOLS DURING THE 2020-2021 SYThe modifications shown below seek to adapt the MD Green Schools application for schools during the 2020-2021 SY. Through these modifications, MAEOE seeks to address the current distance learning models that will be utilized throughout the state. In recognizing that many Maryland students will be learning at home, the three objectives have been modified to incorporate at home practices. Green Centers can use these modifications when assisting a school with the application process or when planning their own programming. The recommendations shown below may assist schools in achieving MD Green School status this school year. Out of the box thinking is encouraged. If you have questions, please contact greenschools@. Objective One: Curriculum & InstructionRecommendations for Schools (Centers can also use recommendations when planning programming).1.1 Environmental Issue Instruction - ES/MS: instruction in all grades. HS: instruction in at least 4 subjectsFor documentation consider using student work as an artifact if photos are not easily obtainable or do not make sense. Online platforms such as Google Classroom may provide an “easy” way of collecting student work submissions. 1.2.1 Professional Development – Full Staff Awareness Work with the administrative team in the school to announce recertification plans at a virtual staff meeting. Make a copy of the meeting agenda and take a screen shot of the attendees. 1.2.2 Professional Development – 10% of teaching staff with recent environmental educationAt least 10 % have environmental education professional development within the last 4 yearsUtilize online trainings that focus on student learning through environmental literacy.1.2.3 Additional Professional DevelopmentProfessional development older than 4 yearsOptional, as in years past. 1.3.1 Sustainable Schools – School Wide Environmental Behavior ChangeAt least one non-student driven practiceOPTIONAL - Consider the changes your school has made in the distance learning model. Do any apply under this section?1.3.2 Sustainable Schools – Systemic PartnershipAt least one partnership with your school district central officeOPTIONAL1.4 CelebrationSchool wide eventOnline celebrations via virtual classrooms are a way to meet the requirement. Objective Two: Student-Driven Sustainability PracticesEight actions in two or more practices. For each action, a minimum of 10 students must participate from the same school.2.1 Water Conservation/Water Pollution PreventionCalculate water conservation at home (showers, lawn, brushing teeth, etc.); hydro/aquaponics gardening; conservation signage in the home (ex: signs in bathroom); collecting rain water at home for garden or other plants; litter pick up in neighborhood; posting signage in neighborhood supporting anti-littering.2.2 Energy ConservationAdjust thermostat settings (warmer in summer, cooler in winter), adjust window shades/curtains allow sun in home for heating and cooling, light switch covers; conservation signage in the home; planting trees for shade near the house; address vampire energy (unplug appliances, computers, chargers, etc.); open windows for cool air (during late summer or fall);2.3 Solid Waste ReductionComposting (at home or pick up options), reduce packaging on grocery purchases (bring your own bags, meal leftovers, recycling, reusing items, return plastic grocery bags to store; old electronics to appropriate collection site; CFLs to Home Depot or other collection sites.2.4 Habitat RestorationPlant flowers or a tree outside or even inside with the intention of relocating outside when possible; build simple birdhouse with at home materials.2.5 Structures for Environmental LearningID all the plants in the garden or in the yard (Use popsicle sticks or the like for ID); build an area to work on school assignments in the outdoors.2.6 Responsible TransportationRemind parents/guardians not to idle cars when possible with signs in the neighborhood; ride your bike to pick up something for the house (when and where safe); walking to run errands.2.7 Healthy HOME/School EnvironmentDisposing of fats, oils, and grease properly; vegetarian day meals, natural cleaners such as vinegar, indoor house plants added to the home. 2.8 Citizen Science / Community ScienceLost Ladybug Project and Project FeederWatchObjective Three: Community Partnerships, Awards, and Special Recognition3.1.1 is Optional; 3.1.2 is still Required; 3.2 remains optional3.1.1 School active in the communityAt least 1 ongoing, sustained partnership where the school is active in the community with a partner (can be same partner as 3.1.2)OPTIONAL: Online fundraiser which supports an environmental cause, small group community clean-up (10 or fewer people). 3.1.2 Partner active in the school At least 1 ongoing, sustained partnership where a partner is active in the school (can be same partner as 3.1.1)Partners will be essential in assisting schools this year. Please reach out to an in-county Green Center or a local environmental education non-profit for support and environmental literacy programming. 3.2 Awards and Special Recognition (Optional)Describe any awards received for greening activitiesLet MAEOE know if the school, students, or staff are recognized. Optional, as in years past. ................
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