Click below to access the Maryland Green Schools portal, where you will find all the information and resources you need to apply for or renew a Maryland Green Schools Award:
PORTAL: www.marylandgreenschools.org
Click here for a list of Maryland Green Schools
Download our Application Guide
Did you know that nearly half of all Maryland students in grades PreK-12 attend a Maryland Green School?
Established in 1999, the Maryland Green Schools Program (MDGS) is a nationally acclaimed initiative dedicated to fostering sustainability within schools. The program is closely aligned with the 2014 Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement and powerfully supports the graduation requirements and standards set forth by the Maryland State Department of Education.
693 schools across the state are currently recognized with Maryland Green School Awards. This represents 39% of the approximately 2,200 public and independent schools across the state that serve more than 430,000 students in grades PreK-12.
40 community partner organizations throughout Maryland have been recognized by MAEOE as Maryland Green Centers, representing an amazing statewide network of support that provides our Green Schools with student programming, professional learning for teachers, and logistical support with the application process. And we are developing a growing cadre of Green Ambassadors - individuals throughout the state who are trained to offer guidance and support to Maryland Green Schools.
Maryland Green Schools Act of 2019
The Maryland Green Schools Act of 2019 legislation was passed with bi-partisan in the House and the Senate. The legislation helps to realize the vision of Maryland’s Environmental Literacy requirement in COMAR 13A.4.17 and the sustainable schools goal with the Chesapeake Bay Agreement. The Bill provides funding to expand Maryland Green Schools and the Green Center network that supports schools with environmental education programming.
The program is evaluated annually to assess progress towards goals.
Annual Progress Report and Evaluation
As part of MAEOE's State Appropriation, a yearly external evaluation is conducted to assess the growth and development of Maryland Green Schools across the state.
In the first year of state funding, this evaluation primarily focused on quantitatively assessing progress towards the 50% goal. Specifically, it compared the characteristics of schools that have achieved MDGS status with those that haven't. This comparative analysis aimed to provide insights into the program's current status, identify areas of strength, and uncover opportunities for further growth.
The 2024 and 2025 evaluations were carried out by Human Nature.
Access the latest evaluation reports:
2025 Evaluation
2024 Evaluation
2022 Evaluation
2023 Evaluation
2021 Evaluation
Green School/Center Flags and Plaques
Newly designated schools and centers will receive their first flag and plaque during the Youth Summit in May, or they can arrange for delivery to their school if attendance is not possible.
Current Maryland Green Schools and Centers have the option to order replacement flags from MAEOE at a cost of $75 per flag, with flag dimensions measuring 3' x 5'. Additionally, a replacement plaque is available for $203.95, with each added plate costing $6.95. Shipping charges will be applied, ranging from $12.00 to $15.00 via USPS. If you require a replacement, please contact greenschools@maeoe.org first to request an estimate.
For invoicing options, kindly reach out to office@maeoe.org.
Don't forget to explore our selection of flags, t-shirts, hats, water bottles, and more, available at the Youth Summit!
