School-Wide Environmental Behavioral Changes
Johnson Controls, a company that assists organizations in optimizing energy and operational efficiencies, conducted an Energy Audit at Northern Garrett High School. Based on their recommendations, every light fixture and bulb in the school was replaced to provide the same amount of light at lower wattages. Motion sensors were placed on outdoor lighting. New seals were placed on all exterior and various interior doors to increase the efficiency of the school's HVAC system as well. Additionally, the company replaced all urinals and toilets in the school with low-flow models and installed aerators in all faucets to reduce water usage.
The school computer network includes a folder for each student and teacher. Information can be shared between the folders allowing teachers to distribute information and students to submit assignments without having to print documents and make copies. Many teachers in the building utilize this network feature on a regular basis. Google Drive is also utilized to reduce copies. For example, important documents and forms that used to be provided to teachers as hard copies are distributed via a Google Drive folder.
School news and announcements are shared via a student-produced Morning Show that is aired every day during homeroom. Distribution of important information via this method also cuts down on the use of paper and making of copies.
- NGHS has been named an Asthma Friendly School by the Maryland Asthma Control Program. In order to be an Asthma Friendly School, NGHS must meet several air quality goals including:
tobacco smoke at all times
--The school uses Green-Seal products to clean the school
--All custodial and maintenance personnel are properly trained to reduce allergens in the school building
--The school uses an integrated pest management (IPM) program
--The EPA's Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools has been training course has been completed and implemented by the building maintenance supervisor
--Teachers are encouraged to create healthy classrooms which include limiting clutter which can accumulate dust, wiping down common areas such as computer keyboards, tables, etc.
--The school monitors outdoor air quality and modifies outdoor activities when appropriate
Systemic Partnerships
Environmental projects completed at NGHS often involve partnerships with Central Office departments. For example, the school district maintenance department works closely with us when we build or upkeep environmental learning structures such as the wetland or native meadow. Below is a document submitted to the district head of maintenance making them aware of pesticide application in our constructed wetland to control the cattail population.
This is an invoice from the district food services department for the purchase of eggs from the chickens living in our campus barn. These eggs are then served in cafeterias throughout our district.