WCAIS WINS 2018 ▶ GREEN RIBBON AWARD

Leaders form the Western Connecticut Academy for International Studies Elementary Magnet School recently traveled to Washington D.C. to receive its 2018 Green Rib- bon Award from the U.S. Department of Education.

The Green Ribbon designation highlights schools that teach effective sustainability education, improve health or reduce their own environmental impact and utility costs, according to the department.

WCAIS was one of 46 schools nationwide — and the only from Connecticut — to be chosen for the distinction.

“Special recognition must be given to second grade teacher Ruth Dyer, who is the catalyst behind the drive for sustainability and environmental awareness at our school,” Principal Christopher Roche said. “Without Mrs. Dyer’s leadership and the incredible hard work of our staff, students and parents, the vision for an international, environmentally friendly school where students learn to be globally responsible citizens could not have been achieved.”

Connecticut Education Commissioner Dianna Wentzell nominated the school for its green curriculum, including student-organized school and home recycling efforts, food composting in the cafeteria, community garden activities and its involvement with Jane Goodall’s Roots and Shoots and John Farrell’s Bridges of Peace and Hope.