Page 119 - Superintendent Annual Report 2023-24

Commitment to Healthy Learning and Working Environment

The Indoor Air Quality program is integral to the District’s goal of providing
healthy learning and working environments for all students, staff, and visitors.
During FY24, Environmental and Conservation Services staff responded to
521 assessment requests and completed 370 projects. They also handled 59
enhanced sanitizing incidents, with guidance from the Florida Department
of Health, the Health Care District, and the School District’s Health Services
specialist.

The conservation, preservation, and maintenance of our outdoor learning
environments, transformed into ‘living classrooms’, have proven to foster
creativity, imagination, and an appreciation of the natural environment.
Our District elementary schools have utilized these natural areas on-site to
enhance science curriculum, and career day. The 21-acre prairie wetlands
and pine flatwood uplands nature preserve, featuring two trails for students
to explore native Florida plants and animals, were a highlight of Acreage
Pines ES career day activities. Similarly, the Dwight D. Eisenhower ES half- Dwight D. Eisenhower ES gopher tortoise
acre gopher tortoise preserve served as an important educational tool,
teaching students about the need to protect threatened species and scrub habitat encroachment.

Green Schools Champions Sustainable Schools Program

Green Champions cultivate a cultural shift within the District, foster broader adoption of environmentally conscious
behaviors and initiatives, and lead sustainability activities with the assistance of a green team. The Green Champions
Program was established in FY16, with 59 schools. Over eight years, the program grew by 234% to 197 Green Champions
representing every school and multiple facilities.

In a significant development, the District introduced a stipend program in FY24, a first-time recognition of the dedication
and efforts of individuals promoting sustainable practices. This new initiative, which saw over 54% of the Green Champions
attending virtual launch meetings, not only supports green initiatives but also helps identify areas where the District can
save money, making it a win-win situation for all.

Participants were offered various professional learning opportunities as part of the Green Champions Program. These
included the Environmental & Conservation Services Department’s annual Sustainability Symposium and the Green
Schools Challenge, designed to equip Green Champions with the skills and knowledge needed to implement sustainable
practices and serve as ambassadors of environmental stewardship.

Green Champions making upcycled art with the Green Champions at the opening session Forest Hill ES Green Champions attending
Guy Harvey Foundation at the of the FY24 Sustainability Symposium the Dream in Green, Green Schools
FY24 Sustainability Symposium Challenge in-person training

EDUCATE | AFFIRM | INSPIRE 119