Stoddert Elementary School in Ward 3 was named a Green Ribbon School today by the U.S. Department of Education (ED). ED announced these first-ever awards today at an event at Stoddert. The schools receiving the award were recognized for creating “green” school environments, promoting healthy schools and working to provide environmental and outdoor education.
“I am so proud of the entire Stoddert Elementary School community for this prestigious recognition,” said District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) Chancellor Kaya Henderson. “Being green and teaching green makes our schools healthier and safer places for our students, while also saving money. Teaching our children early about the importance of the environment around them will make them smart, strong stewards of their communities.”
Stoddert Elementary School, which was modernized by the Department of General Services (DGS) in 2010, received LEED Gold Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council and boasts a range of sustainability features. The school’s green elements include: an extensive geothermal system under the athletics field that provides the building’s heating and cooling; two green roofs; “light shelves” that improve day lighting, reduce solar heat gain in the summer, and allow winter sun to penetrate and heat the school; a comprehensive recycling program; “low-e” glazing for improved insulation; individual lighting; and HVAC controls in every classroom.
“I’m delighted to see Stoddert Elementary recognized by the White House for being a green leader,” said Mayor Vincent C. Gray. “My administration is committed to making the District the most green and livable city in the world, and our schools are already leading the way to that goal.”
Stoddert has also created “Green Teams” to help support their greening efforts both in the school and in the curriculum. In classrooms, teachers have students focus on energy units at every grade level. They use materials from the Green Education Foundation. Additionally, the school teaches the students about the importance of recycling.
“We’re pleased and excited to receive an award that acknowledges all we’ve been able to do by being a green school in a beautiful green environment,” said Dr. Marjorie Cuthbert, Principal at Stoddert. “We’ve seen how it benefits our students, and we know that it is not only helping academically but it’s also helping the planet.”
Stoddert was one of two schools in D.C. who received this award and the only public school recognized in the District. Other LEED certified schools at DCPS include H.D. Cooke Elementary School, Dunbar High School, Phelps Architecture, Construction and Engineering High School, Savoy Elementary School and School Without Walls.
“We are so thrilled to have the Obama Administration acknowledge one of our world-class green schools,” said Brian J. Hanlon, DGS Acting Director. “Our goal is simple: construct and maintain buildings in a way that protects the environment, reduces energy consumption, and fosters first-class environments to learn, work, and play.”
Contact: Melissa Salmanowitz | 202-535-1096 | Contact Email