April 29, 2024
For Immediate Release
CONTACT:
Office of Communications
301-952-6001
communications@pgcps.org
UPPER MARLBORO, MD – U.S. Deputy Commerce Secretary Don Graves delivered the keynote address at the Prince George's County Public Schools’ (PGCPS) annual Student Environmental Alliance Summit (SEAS) on April 29. Hosted in collaboration with Smithsonian Affiliations, the summit aims to inspire high school students to engage with environmental issues and explore career opportunities in the green sector.
“At the Department of Commerce, we’re laser focused on building an economy that works for everyone, and our success depends on how effectively we protect our natural resources, fight the climate crisis, and build resilience,” said U.S. Deputy Commerce Secretary Don Graves. “Our National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is hard at work protecting and restoring our oceans, coasts, and estuaries – in Maryland and across the country. We are encouraged by Prince George’s County Public Schools' role as a regional climate leader, and look forward to strengthening our collaboration.”
Deputy Secretary Graves shared President Biden’s climate change priorities with students, highlighting academic and career pathways within the green industry and across the federal government.
Students attending SEAS participated in hands-on environmental activities and interacted with scientists and educators from the Smithsonian including the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center and Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. More than 30 environmental organizations, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Natural Resources Defense Council offered information on internships, resources and community action.
“Opportunities like these are critical in empowering students to become responsible stewards of our environment,” said PGCPS Superintendent Millard House II. "We are honored to have Deputy Secretary Graves join us with a call-to-action for students and to inspire them to explore green careers.”
A leader in K-12 climate action, PGCPS boasts 149 Maryland Green Schools, the highest number in the state. The district's commitment to sustainability extends to its new school construction projects, all of which are LEED-certified for energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. Additionally, PGCPS has developed a nationally-recognized Climate Change Action Plan to reduce the district’s carbon footprint and improve energy efficiency.
For more information about SEAS, contact Donald Belle, PGCPS Environmental Outreach Educator, at donald.belle@pgcps.org.
About Smithsonian Affiliations: Affiliations is a national outreach program that develops long-term, collaborative relationships with museums, educational, and cultural organizations to enrich communities with Smithsonian resources. More information is available at www.affiliations.si.edu.
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