Press Release: PGCPS Celebrates Green Leadership at ‘Driving Green Action’ Event
October 2, 2024
For Immediate Release
CONTACT:
Office of Communications
301-952-6001
communications@pgcps.org
UPPER MARLBORO, MD — Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS) reaffirmed its commitment to climate action and sustainability at the Driving Green Action event on Wednesday, October 2 at Ellen Ochoa Middle School, the district’s newest net-zero energy school.
Superintendent Millard House II thanked state and local partners for their continued support in advancing PGCPS's sustainability efforts and highlighted the district’s Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP), the first of its kind for a Maryland school district. During the event, members of the CCAP workgroup were recognized for their contributions to advancing the district's climate goals.
“PGCPS operates with limited resources, like many school districts. This plan guides our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint, improve energy efficiency, and foster a culture of environmental stewardship,” House said.
The event, which brought together PGCPS environmental leaders, elected officials, community advocates, and partners, highlighted the district’s green education initiatives and sustainable practices.
“I want to congratulate PGCPS on the fantastic leadership. Capitol Hill can feel very far away from what’s happening in the county,” said Congressman Glenn Ivey. “The number of schools we’ve been able to build, the caliber of the environment they provide, and now the environmental impact have all come together in such short order.”
Attendees had an up-close look at one of the district's electric school buses and heard from Transportation Supervisor Tony Spruill about PGCPS's transition from diesel to electric, which includes the new Mullikin pilot electrification microgrid that will provide charging infrastructure for 90 school buses.
Guests also toured Ellen Ochoa Middle School, powered by geothermal and solar energy systems that generate 111% of the school’s energy needs.
Several additional schools under construction are also being designed as net-zero energy facilities, thanks in part to more than $3.4 million in grants from the Maryland Energy Administration’s Decarbonizing Public Schools program, aimed at creating healthier, more energy-efficient learning environments.
“Funding the transition to clean energy in our state’s schools is an important goal for the Maryland Energy Administration,” said Director Paul G. Pinsky. “This project demonstrates our state's strong commitment to clean energy and sustainability in our state’s public institutions for future generations.”
With 149 Maryland Green Schools — the most in the state — PGCPS also showcased its dedication to climate education and sustainability districtwide.
“Sustainability starts with student action,” said PGCPS Science Supervisor Donald Belle. “All of these initiatives are excellent, but for them to be truly sustainable we have to reach our students. Curriculum, instruction and environmental justice are key to this plan.”
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