Green Ribbon School District
In 2021, Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) was named as a U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School District Sustainability Awardee. PWCS was one of five school divisions in the country to earn this award. Criteria was based on high achievement in: reducing environmental impacts and costs, improving health and wellness, and effective environmental and sustainability education.
For more information about this award, please read the news release.
Energy Star Certification
Established by the U.S. Federal Government's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Energy Star symbol recognizes energy efficiency, cost savings, and environmental protection in products, homes, plants, and buildings. Energy Star certified products and buildings have helped households and businesses save on their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint.
In 2017, 60 Prince William County Public Schools earned Energy Star Certifications from the EPA. These schools were recognized in an awards ceremony in April 2017. View the 2017 Energy Star Certified schools and group picture.
VSBA Green School Challenge
The Green Schools Challenge is sponsored by the Virginia School Board Association (VSBA). The challenge requires annual documentation and planning for issues relating to environmental stewardship, energy management, indoor air quality and education of students in the classroom regarding sustainable strategies.
PWCS has participated since 2009 earning the Certified Green School Division award, as well as the Silver Green School certification and the Platinum Green School certification. In 2020 , PWCS was recognized as an overall Green Schools Challenge winner.
Virginia Energy Efficiency Council
The Virginia Energy Efficiency Council hosts an annual awards ceremony showcasing energy efficiency champions throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. Winners will have contributed to the reduction of energy consumption while lowering utility bills, conserving natural resources, and impacting economic growth.
In November 2017, Prince William County Public Schools was awarded first place in the Academic category of the Virginia Energy Efficiency Council's Leadership awards.