The federal program, in its second year, recognizes schools and school districts for working to ensure sustainable, healthy school environments and effective environmental education.
View full sizeLehigh University graduate student Christina DeSalva stands in January 2012 in the greenhouse at Broughal Middle School in Bethlehem. The U.S. Department of Education program, in its second year, recognizes schools and school districts for working to ensure sustainable, healthy school environments and effective environmental education.
This year's 78 honorees include Broughal Middle School in Bethlehem and Nazareth Area Middle School. Pennsylvania's other schools honored are in Philadelphia and Chester County. New Jersey's two Green Ribbon winners are in Bernardsville and Neptune.
Pennsylvania Secretary of Education Ron Tomalis nominated the Keystone State's schools in February.
“For the second year in a row, all of Pennsylvania’s nominees have been selected for an award,” Tomalis said in a statement. “On behalf of Gov. Tom Corbett, I congratulate these schools for being nationally recognized and showcasing their efforts. These schools join the list of green schools that will serve as a model to all public and private schools across Pennsylvania.”
Broughal opened in fall 2009 on South Side Bethlehem. Gold-certified by the U.S. Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program, the school replaced a previous building so no green space was lost for construction. The school has a 7,600-gallon cistern to collect rainwater used to flush toilets and irrigate the grounds. The school also uses waterless urinals, low-flow faucets, and sink and toilet sensors.
A highly efficient HVAC system saves energy each year while motion sensors control classroom lighting. A parking deck below the school even boasts dedicated parking for hybrid vehicles and carpools, and its design assists in limiting water runoff and includes a carbon monoxide-monitoring system that controls exhaust fans that maintain safe air quality levels.
Other highlights for the sustainable school include students applying in-classroom learning to the real-world environment, in part by growing healthy foods in the campus' greenhouse and nearby community gardens.
Bethlehem Area schools Superintendent Joseph Roy said his district is happy for the national recognition and it speaks to two things: the environmentally friendly design of the building and the great curriculum that taps into the school's unique features.
The building's Metasys system monitors and controls all HVAC and mechanical equipment. A Lutron lighting control system works to reduce electricity use in conjunction with dimmable ballasts, day-lighting shelves in classrooms and on/off sensors located throughout the building and outdoors.
Other ecologically sound highlights of the 34-acre site include walking trails, outdoor classroom areas, and a greenhouse and composting site. An elaborate system of stormwater drainage and retention areas was installed, along with water-efficient landscaping that requires no irrigation. Water conservation occurs inside the building as well, with low-flow plumbing fixtures and faucets throughout the building.
"Obviously, we are very proud of our middle school. However, we understand that this recognition would not be possible without the efforts of the middle school administration, staff and students," Nazareth Area School District Superintendent Dennis Riker said Monday.