Two Long Beach Elementaries Lauded for Being Green

Lowell and Twain Elementary Schools in Long Beach were nominated today to compete in the U.S. Department of Education's Green Ribbon Schools program.

The federal program honors energy efficiency, education on sustainability, and student health and wellness improvements.

Nominated by the state Department of Education along with the Long Beach schools were the Encinitas Union School District in San Diego County and the
San Domenico School of San Anselmo.

“I am proud to recognize these outstanding schools and district for their comprehensive efforts to green their campuses, their communities, and our state,” said state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson.

“Together with efficient facilities and good health practices, a strong eco-literacy education develops students into citizens who will be lifelong stewards of our environment,” he said.

Torlakson said student “Green Team” members at Lowell Elementary divert more than 28,000 gallons of classroom recyclables annually from the trash. The school also holds “Car Free Fridays” to reduce pollution and increase exercise for students who walk or bike to school.

Twain Elementary “Green Team” members divert 85 percent of their lunchtime waste and hold a monthly fundraising event to collect bottles and cans for recycling. The campus received an Energy Star certification in 2011.

National winners will be honored in July.

--City News Service