The California Green Ribbon Schools (CA-GRS) recognition award uses the applications submitted for nomination to the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools (ED-GRS) to recognize schools and school districts across the state for environmental excellence and demonstrated achievement of the three Pillars of ED-GRS.
No application is required for CA-GRS. All complete ED-GRS applications of public schools and school districts will be automatically considered for the California Department of Education's state award. Private school awards are conferred by the California Association of Private School Organizations.
ED-GRS applicants will be recognized as California Green Ribbon Schools in the following manner:
- Bronze Level: Achievement of 55.0 - 64.9%
- Silver Level: Achievement of 65.0 - 74.9%
- Gold Level: Achievement of 75% or better
- Green Achievers: The highest achievement, given to the ED-GRS nominees
California Green Ribbon Schools award recipients are recognized at a state award ceremony held each Spring.
