Folger Named National Green Ribbon School

One day after Earth Day and on the same day as 's Environmental Science Fair, the planets aligned on Monday when the school became one of the first Green Ribbon Schools in the United States. It's also the first in Anne Arundel County to receive the designation from the U.S. Department of Education.

The school is being recognized for its "dedication to creating 'green' environments that promote health and ensure a high-quality environmental and outdoor education to prepare students with 21st century skills," according to a press release.

Folger was among other local schools who participated in theon Saturday at

"We are so excited that we are a Green Ribbon School and showed the announcement on all our screens in the classrooms," said Folger Principal Sue Bachmann.

"It is an honor and we work very hard to try and bring good green projects to the school and events," she said, noting that the timing of Monday's Green School announcement came just after participation in the Earth Day Festival on Saturday and also the school's Environmental Science Fair.

"It's all happening at once," she said.

Folger is one of four Maryland schools on the list and one of just 78 across the country announced as honorees this morning by Education Secretary Arne Duncan, according to the release.

“This award is a tribute not just to the work that Folger McKinsey’s students, parents, and staff do with regard to environmental literacy and other green initiatives, but to the incredible efforts of those in our Facilities Division and our Office of Food and Nutrition Services for their dedication to ensuring our buildings and health programs support the same goals,” Superintendent Kevin Maxwell said in the press release.

“I believe we will have many more of these award winners in the years to come,” Walker said.

Folger is also celebrating being back in Severna Park after being relocated to Chesapeake Bay Middle School for almost two years. Last week, the school held a with local dignitaries and open houses for the community to see the building after it underwent a $27 million renovation and expansion.

Get daily and breaking news email updates from Severna Park Patch by signing up for newsletters here.