Howell, NJ – All schools in the district of the Howell Township Public Schools have met the requirements to achieve Sustainable Jersey for Schools Silver certification and Digital Schools Star recognition for the year 2023, bringing the total number of certified schools across New Jersey to 337. The schools that have achieved certification and a Digital Schools Star are: Adelphia, Aldrich, Ardena, Greenville, Griebling, Land O’ Pines, Memorial, Newbury, Ramtown and Taunton Elementary Schools, in addition to Middle Schools North and South. As leading examples of sustainability excellence, these schools provide outstanding learning opportunities for their students and join an established cohort of recognized schools across the state.
Joseph Isola, Superintendent of Schools said, “We're thrilled to achieve continued success in the Sustainable Jersey for Schools and Digital Star programs, proudly earning these prestigious awards again this year. This dual-focused assessment ensures our schools stay at the forefront of innovation, meeting evolving student and community needs.
Partnering with Sustainable Jersey for Schools, the Howell Township Public School District reinforces its commitment to sustainability efforts and advances its effective use of technology. Our schools' efforts yield significant benefits for students and the wider community, enhancing education and promoting a brighter, eco-conscious future.”
Sustainable Jersey for Schools developed the voluntary certification program in 2014 as a roadmap for pre-kindergarten through twelfth-grade public schools to reach their fullest potential. Each school that is certified at the bronze-level must submit documentation to show it has completed a balanced portfolio of the program’s sustainability actions, attaining a minimum of 150 points. The more advanced silver-level requires a minimum of 350 points of sustainability actions.
The schools also earned Digital Schools Star recognition as part of their Sustainable Jersey for Schools certification. A Digital Schools Star embraces the mindful implementation of effective digital learning and communication tools, resources and practices. Star schools document their successful digital learning strategies in the action areas of leadership, learning practices, technology access, school culture and climate and student learning to qualify for star recognition.
“I commend the teachers, administrators, staff, parents and students for their commitment and vision for the future. Becoming certified with Sustainable Jersey for Schools is a significant achievement,” said Randall Solomon, executive director of Sustainable Jersey. “Certified schools play a crucial role in reducing environmental impacts, improving health and preparing students for the challenges they will face in the future. With 67% of New Jersey public school districts participating and over 300 certified schools, there’s an incredible opportunity and potential for change,” Solomon added. Sustainable Jersey participating schools serve as learning labs and the certification program supports educators by identifying authentic learning opportunities for students and staff.
About Sustainable Jersey for Schools
Sustainable Jersey for Schools is a certification program for public schools in New Jersey. It was launched by Sustainable Jersey, an organization that provides tools, training and financial incentives to support and reward municipalities and schools as they pursue sustainability programs. To date, 1,130 schools are participating in the program. Visit the Participating Districts and Schools webpage to see the full list of participating and certified schools and school districts. Sustainable Jersey for Schools has awarded over $3.1 million in grants to schools and school districts.
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