Howell, NJ – Greenville and Land O’ Pines Elementary Schools were both awarded a $2,000 Sustainable Jersey for Schools grant funded the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA). Thirteen $10,000 grants and twenty-seven $2,000 grants were distributed to support a diverse range of sustainability initiatives, including outdoor gardens and classrooms; composting, waste reduction and recycling programs; student health and wellness; inclusive, diverse and equitable school environments; biodiversity projects and student safety.
Mrs. Palazzolo, Principal of Greenville School, shared, “Greenville School will upgrade a traditional water fountain to include a bottle filler station. This bottle filler will allow students and staff to refill reusable water bottles instead of buying and throwing away plastic bottles. This will increase the health and safety of students, staff, and the school community when utilizing water bottle filling stations verses the traditional water fountains.”
We are so excited to receive this Sustainable grant for our school! Adding a Water Bottle Filling Station for our staff and students will lead to improved health not only by increasing the intake of water for our students rather than sugary drinks, but also by improving the quality of the water consumed due to having a filtered system for water bottle filling,” said Principal Fiore at Land O’ Pines School.
"As we face the challenges of climate change, species extinction, and plastic pollution in our oceans, it's crucial that we make better choices to ensure a healthier planet for future generations," said NJEA President Sean M. Spiller. "When students learn early on that sustainable practices not only protect the environment but also promote economic efficiency, we all benefit from these positive changes. That's why it's essential to emphasize sustainability and help schools become leaders in environmental innovation and the fight against climate change. NJEA is proud to partner with Sustainable Jersey for Schools on this important initiative and to support our schools in advancing this mission." In addition to $2.5 million in grant funding and program assistance, NJEA supports Sustainable Jersey for Schools as a program underwriter.
“Congratulations to all the grant recipients! We hope this funding serves as a catalyst for transformative sustainability initiatives, sparking greater awareness and positive change throughout your community. A special thank you to NJEA for providing the essential financial support that makes these projects a reality,” said Sustainable Jersey Executive Director Randall Solomon. An independent Blue-Ribbon Selection Committee evaluated the grant proposals.
About Sustainable Jersey for Schools
Sustainable Jersey for Schools is celebrating a decade of advancing sustainability in New Jersey’s public schools. The program has grown significantly since its launch in 2015, when 59 schools earned certification. Today, 566 schools have achieved certification, and more than 1,212 schools actively participate. The program equips schools with essential tools, training and financial incentives to support and recognize their sustainability efforts. To date, Sustainable Jersey for Schools has awarded over $3.5 million in grants. Visit the Participating Districts and Schools webpage for a full list of participating and certified schools and districts. To learn more about Sustainable Jersey for Schools, visit: www.sustainablejerseyschools.com.
About the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA)
NJEA is the state’s largest association of education professionals, representing over 200,000 elementary and secondary teachers, administrators, higher education faculty, educational support professionals, retirees, and students preparing to become teachers. To learn more about NJEA, visit www.njea.org.