On Earth Day, The John Carroll School received certification as a Maryland Green School by the Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education (MAEOE) after demonstrating and documenting a continuous effort to integrate sustainable environmental management practices, environmental education curriculum, professional development opportunities and community engagement into the School’s daily operations. The Maryland Green School award reflects our school-wide dedication to environmental education, involving staff, students and the community, making John Carroll part of a national and international effort to create a more sustainable future.

In 2023, The John Carroll School launched the "Green Team" to work towards the School’s goal of becoming a MAEOE Green School. This committee includes teachers, staff, students and school leadership, and empowers our students to make changes to reduce environmental impact, encourage sustainability and foster environmental literacy. The Green Team is led by Ms. Mary Beth Cochran, Science Department Faculty, and supported by the School’s Facilities Team and Leadership.  

The Green Team launched significant, campus-wide initiatives in support of the School’s MAEOE Green School certification process, including:

• The "No-Mow Zone," allowing for natural growth and the area to move through the various stages of ecological succession.  

• The Trex Program to recycle household bags and wrap that are turned into Trex’s Earth-friendly composite decking and railing. The Trex container was placed in the School’s cafeteria to collect acceptable forms of plastic film.  

• Several tree-planting and trash pick-up events throughout the year.

• The installation of water bottle fill stations throughout the building.

The Green Team continues to develop and promote initiatives to uphold our commitment as a Maryland Green School.

A big shout-out to Ms. Mary Beth Cochran and the Green Team for their passionate leadership and efforts. It is an incredible accomplishment and we're proud this was earned as a first-time applicant!