The U.S. Department of Education announced on Thursday that three Missouri schools were chosen as part of the 2017 Green Ribbon Schools program. McKelvey Elementary School (Maryland Heights), Parkway North High School (St. Louis) and Maplewood Richmond Heights Middle School (Maplewood) are being honored for their innovative efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, improve health and wellness, and ensure effective sustainability education.

“The students and staff in these schools have made great strides to better themselves and their local community,” said Commissioner of Education Margie Vandeven. “Their dedication to creating a healthy and active learning environment is worthy of this national recognition.”

A total of 45 schools, nine districts, and nine postsecondary institutions from across the country were recognized as part of this year’s national program. The recognition award is part of a U.S. Department of Education effort to identify and communicate practices that result in improved student engagement, academic achievement, graduation rates, and workforce preparedness, and it reinforces federal efforts to increase energy independence and economic security.

The schools will be recognized during a ceremony in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, July 19. To learn more about the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools program, visit this website.