State education authorities can submit school, district, early learning, and postsecondary institution nominations for U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools until Feb. 15, according to the USDOE.

Previously, the deadline was Feb. 1, but it has been extended. Selectees will be announced sometime around Earth Day and will be invited to send representatives to a recognition ceremony in Washington, D.C. in July.

For institutions that have not already been honored (this is a one-time award), now is a great time to begin preparing for the 2023-2024 application cycle by using resources and programs on the Green Strides School Sustainability Resource Hub and contacting your state education authority.

For future cycles, interested colleges and universities should contact their state higher education authorities, while schools and districts should contact their state educational agencies.

Schools, districts, and postsecondary institutions are only eligible if nominated by state authorities. State education authorities can find award criteria and other state implementation guidance on the USDOE website and can contact U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools for more information.