Three of Georgia’s public schools have been named national Green Ribbon Schools for 2017, the U.S. Department of Education announced this week. Gilbert Elementary School in Walker County, Kinchafoonee Primary School in Lee County, and Morningside Elementary School in Atlanta Public Schools were all honored with the Green Ribbon designation, which recognizes schools and districts that exercise a comprehensive approach to creating “green” environments by reducing environmental impact, promoting health, and ensuring a high-quality environmental and outdoor education for students.

The University of Georgia was also honored, along with Keisha Ford-Jenrette, the Recognitions Manager for the Georgia Department of Education. Ford-Jenrette received the 2017 ED-Green Ribbon Schools Director’s Award, and was honored for her efforts to advance school sustainability in the state of Georgia.

“I couldn’t be prouder of these schools – and their students and staffs – as they receive this national distinction,” State School Superintendent Richard Woods. “Georgia’s schools continue to chase excellence and put innovative practices into place, and I’m pleased to see that recognized. I’m also very proud of Ms. Ford-Jenrette, who as our Recognitions Manager has helped thousands of Georgia’s schools, students, and educators receive a much-deserved ‘thank you’ for their work.”