The U.S. Department of Education announced today that Gulf Shores City Schools in Gulf Shores, Alabama

is 1 of 11 school districts in the country to be awarded the 2023 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon

School District Sustainability Award. Gulf Shores City Schools was the only school district in the

southeastern United States to win the district award.

USDOE Green Ribbon Schools recognizes schools, districts, and higher education institutions that nurture

and promote environmental, health, and sustainability education and practices. This includes demonstrating

responsible stewardship of natural resources, promoting the safety and wellness of children and adults, and

encouraging an appreciation of our rich natural heritage. The award focuses on the following pillars:

• Pillar I: Reducing environmental impact and costs

• Pillar II: Improving the health and wellness of students and staff

• Pillar III: Providing effective environmental and sustainability education, incorporating STEM, civic

skills, and green career pathways

From its inception, the district established a set of core values that correlates with the standards of USDOE

Green Ribbon Schools: "to provide engaging learning environments, rigorous academics, and to incorporate

unique resources of our community to empower all students to achieve success." The district’s core values

will shape the future of our environment, our commitment to innovation, and our local community for

generations to come.

Notable environmental sustainability education projects completed by GSCS:

• Schneider Electric partnership to replace lighting and air conditioning systems, improved air quality,

and installed solar features that are tied into the power grid to help reduce energy use.

• New STEAM building at Gulf Shores Elementary School

• Gulf Shores High School Farm-to-Table Program

• Upgraded transportation program at GSCS with half of the fleet of buses replaced with ultra-low

sulfur, clean diesel engine models, reducing carbon emissions by 89.5%

• Science by the Shore outdoor, place-based science education program

• All students have access to bicycles throughout the day to support outdoor learning and physical

activity.

• Comprehensive recycling efforts, composting, and water conservation

• Partnership with Center for Ecotourism including a school visit from Jean-Michel Cousteau

• Active health and wellness committee to support physical and mental health of students and staff

“Being acknowledged as a USDOE Green Ribbon School is a testament to out district’s commitment to our

core values and providing a learning atmosphere that is innovative and environmentally friendly.” said Gulf

Shores City Schools Superintendent, Dr. Matt Akin.