Officials hold oversized ceremonial scissors to cut an “Occoquan Elementary School” ribbon at a decorated event, alongside students posing by a water bottle-filling station.Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) continues to turn its commitment to sustainability into measurable action, from energy-efficient schools to waste reduction and student-led environmental initiatives. During Energy Action Month, PWCS is highlighting the progress students and staff are making to reduce environmental impacts while creating opportunities for hands-on learning.

Take a look at some of the numbers behind PWCS sustainability efforts.

First Net-Zero Energy School
Occoquan Elementary School is the first net-zero energy school in PWCS. The building is designed to produce as much energy as it uses annually through high-efficiency systems and renewable energy, reducing environmental impacts while providing real-world learning opportunities for students. Watch a video to learn more about the school’s net-zero features.

State and National Recognition for Sustainability
PWCS schools continue to earn state and national recognition for environmental stewardship, conservation, and community action. Last year, 35 PWCS schools earned Virginia Naturally School recognition and 12 schools received Eco-Schools U.S. recognition, demonstrating student leadership and sustainability efforts across the division.

Additionally, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments awarded PWCS the 2026 Climate and Energy Leadership Educational Institutional Sector Award for Bel Air Elementary School’s geothermal HVAC renovation project. 

Nearly 700 Water Bottle Refill Stations
Every PWCS school has water bottle refill stations, with nearly 700 stations available divisionwide. Beyond helping reduce single-use plastic waste, the stations provide opportunities for students to learn about the importance of reusing materials and reducing waste. Some students are even using data from their schools’ refill stations to calculate how many single-use plastic bottles they have avoided using, turning sustainability into a hands-on learning experience.

Nearly 50,000 Pounds of Food Waste Diverted
Composting efforts are growing across PWCS. Seven schools currently participate in a divisionwide compost hauling program, while 50 schools have tumbling composters that support on-site initiatives.

During the 2025-26 school year, nearly 50,000 pounds of food waste were diverted from landfills through composting.

27% Overall Waste Reduction
PWCS achieved an overall waste reduction of approximately 27% through classroom recycling, composting, and specialized recycling programs.

These numbers reflect the growing impact of sustainability efforts across PWCS, from reducing energy use and waste to creating hands-on learning opportunities for students. During Energy Action Month and throughout the year, PWCS will continue building on this progress and empowering students and staff to help create a more sustainable future. Learn more about these efforts and other environmental initiatives in the Elevate 2030 Strategic Plan.