BIS named one of 84 ‘Model’ Green Schools in state

(May 27, 2011) Berlin Intermediate School is one of 84 Maryland schools that make up the 2011 class of newly certified Maryland Green Schools, reaching ‘Model’ Green School status.

The Maryland Green Schools Award Program, developed and administered by the Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education challenges schools to integrate the environment into all aspects of the school culture including professional development for teachers, curricular integration, modeling of best management practices inside and outside the school, community involvement, and of course, celebration.

On average it takes a school two years to effectively fulfill the requirements associated with certification.

“Berlin Intermediate School’s staff prides itself on providing knowledge to our students about the environment and its care, which allows our students to then take an interest and take action. Becoming one of Maryland’s first Model Green Schools validates our efforts and all of the students’ hard work,” said Tamara Mills, assistant principal.

Academically, Maryland Green Schools have been proven to outperform non-Maryland Green Schools in math and reading even when socioeconomic factors are removed. Additionally, the projects that are implemented within the school buildings and on the school grounds contribute to lowering green house gas emissions, reducing pollutant export to the bay, reduce solid waste disposal, and increase wildlife habitat.

Berlin Intermediate School will be officially recognized as a MAEOE Certified Maryland Model Green School during a youth summit on June 3, at Sandy Point State Park.