group of winners with award

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), in partnership with the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), has recognized Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) as a Governor’s Environmental Excellence Awards Gold Medal Winner for 2026.

The Governor’s Environmental Excellence Awards recognize successful and innovative efforts that improve Virginia’s environment, and this honor reflects PWCS’s long-term commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

“This recognition reflects years of collaborative work to focus on student well-being and long-term sustainability in the spaces where students learn,” said Jesse Gubert, PWCS sustainability coordinator. “Through healthy, high-performing schools, we’re supporting student success and equipping them to create a thriving future for themselves and their community.”

The PWCS Energy and Sustainability and Environmental Services teams provide divisionwide leadership focused on advancing environmental and fiscal responsibility. Through an integrated approach that addresses energy systems, building performance, and waste reduction, their work supports resilient operations that foster healthier learning environments, generate long‑term cost savings, and prepare students and facilities for the future.

PWCS received this recognition in the Environmental and Sustainability Program category, which honors organizations that emphasize programs and systems that integrate sustainability into organizational culture through leadership, innovation, and continual improvement. To be eligible, programs must be implemented in Virginia and maintain a record of sustained compliance.  

Winners of the 2026 Governor’s Environmental Excellence Awards were announced at the 36th Annual Environment Virginia Symposium in March 2026, at the Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, Virginia.