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Welcome to the Michigan Alliance for Environmental and Outdoor Education

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MI Green Schools Announcements

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MI Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy logo

Ongoing Connections:

Michigan Green Schools (MGS) was established as a statewide program by Michigan’s Public Act 146 of 2006 and is managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).  MGS recognizes and celebrates the environmental efforts of PreK–12, public and private schools across the state.  By encouraging environmental stewardship and education, MGS helps protect Michigan’s air, land, water, and ecosystems.  Schools earn Green, Emerald, or Evergreen status by documenting 10 or more approved activities each school year.

MAEOE's education committee strives to support schools in their path to becoming a MI Green School.  This page serves as a space for educators and students looking for ideas, inspiration, and opportunities to complete activities that count toward their annual MGS certification.  From classroom projects to community events, you'll find resources here to help your school meet and exceed your environmental goals.

If you have an opportunity or resource to share, email the statewide coordinator Samantha Lichtenwald at EGLE-MI-Green-Schools@Michigan.gov.   In your message, please provide the full details, including:

Together, we can help more Michigan schools go green and grow a culture of sustainability for the next generation!

  • 24 Oct 2025 1:39 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Corresponding MI Green Schools Category and Activity: Reduce/Reuse/Recycle - Waste-free lunch program

    We ReUse flyer describing their stainless steel trays

    We ReUSE is helping Michigan schools reduce waste, save money, and protect their students' health by making the switch to reusable stainless steel foodware with the help of a Circular Economy Grant from the State of Michigan's Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy.

    Schools across Michigan are already taking advantage of this unique opportunity to transition from single-use plastic and Styrofoam to healthier and more durable stainless steel foodware. Every tray is proudly made in the USA from 100% recycled stainless steel. Thanks to support from the subsidy partner, the price has been reduced by an incredible 80%, bringing the cost down to just $2 per tray. This subsidy is for schools switching from single-use plastic or Styrofoam to stainless-steel reusables.

    To learn more about how your school can make the switch, please contact Connie Lilley by email at connie@wewillreuse.com or by phone at 248-897-1255.

  • 14 Oct 2025 2:06 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    November 7, 2025 (9 a.m. - 3 p.m.): Outdoor Education Expo

    Location: The Fowler Center, 2315 Harmon Lake Road, Mayville, MI 48744

    Tuscola Conservation District is hosting a FREE Outdoor Education Expo and teacher training.  The intended audience for this training includes K-12 teachers, Outdoor Education groups, Girl Scout Leaders, Boy Scout Leaders, Camp personnel, Home-school groups, Youth Group Leaders, Conservation District staff, or anyone working with youth in an outdoor setting.

    Learn about: Leopold Education Project, MI Green Schools, Water Quality, MEECS lessons, and EnviroScape models

    To register call or email Patty McNinch at 989-673-8174 ext. 136 or patty.mcninch@macd.org.

  • 5 Sep 2025 2:21 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    2026 Green Ribbon School Applications Due: December 1, 2025

    Are you a school, district, early learning center, or institution of higher education that is looking for an opportunity to showcase your sustainability efforts? If so, the Green Ribbon Schools application is for you! The award recognizes efforts that reduce environmental impact and costs; improve the health and wellness of schools, students, and staff; and provide effective environmental and sustainability education. 

    Anyone interested in applying for this one-time award can go to the Michigan Green Schools website for more information. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. on December 1, 2025.

    Questions can be directed to Leanne Weber at MDE-ED-GRS@michigan.gov

  • 3 Sep 2025 9:53 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Did you miss the webinar? The video recording will be posted here soon!

    Join the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) for a virtual webinar to kick off the 2025-2026 MI Green Schools year.  Get inspired through presentations that highlight MI Green Schools activities, partners, and students.

    This webinar is geared towards Michigan public and private school students, teachers, staff, and administrators interested in learning how their school can achieve environmental stewardship designation. Local and regional community partners are also encouraged to view the webinar to gain insights on how they can support schools in this journey.

    Please reach out to Sam Lichtenwald at LichtenwaldS@Michigan.gov for any questions.

P.O. Box 27426
Lansing, MI 48909

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