A $5K Prize for Ford's Green Efforts

Sixty-four schools this week were named 2013 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools, and Ford Elementary in Acworth was one of them.

“We are so proud that once again a Georgia school has been named a National Green Ribbon School,” State School Superintendent Dr. John Barge said in a statement. “... This goes to show that schools ... in Georgia are striving to be more energy efficient, developing healthy living habits and providing environmental education.”

According to the Georgia Department of Education, which selected Ford to represent Georgia in the National Green Ribbon Competition, the Acworth elementary school utilizes more than 60 percent of its grounds for environmental education and habitat protection.

“And for almost 20 years, Ford has been committed to protecting, restoring and sustaining its native forests and stream beds while developing outdoor learning labs,” according to the agency. “Ford’s award winning model school for environmental education strives for relevance and resiliency while serving as a mentor to others across the state and nation.”

For demonstrating energy efficiency, Ford will receive a $5,000 grant to support the school's continued green efforts.

For the complete list of winners and other information, click here and here.

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• Ford Elementary to Represent Georgia in National Green Ribbon Competition