Program Updates

On a continuous basis, through the help of the task forces, the Certification Standards Committee reviews Sustainable Jersey for Schools program content, standards, and feedback to ensure actions are relevant, appropriate and up-to-date with current best practices. Sustainable Jersey for Schools announces new program and action updates every year at the annual New Jersey School Boards Workshop in October. New actions and action updates are typically implemented by January 1st. 

2025-2026 New Actions

School Grounds

Tree Planting: 5-25 Points

This variable point action awards points to schools for planting and maintaining at least five trees on school grounds or on other public property used by students. Points awarded depend on the number of trees planted and whether pavement had to be cut to plant the trees. Additional points are available for demonstrating significant student involvement. Earning points for resubmission requires proof of the health of the trees planted in the prior certification cycle and may be augmented by planting new trees.

Green Purchasing

Sustainable Pupil Transport: 10-15 Points

This action awards points to school districts for adoption of alternative fuel pupil transport vehicles (Class A, Class B, Class C, and Class D). The buses must be in service in order to receive points. The action will be awarded 10 points, with additional 5 points for districts that convert at least 5% of the school bus fleet to alternative fuel vehicles. School districts that contract for pupil transport services may receive 10 points if the service utilizes alternative fuel vehicles.

2025-2026 Action Updates

Green Purchasing

Sustainable Fleets: 5, 10, 15, 25 Points

This action awards points to school districts for adoption of alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs). The point changes provide: 5 points for hybrid electric plug in vehicles and electric low-speed vehicles (LSVs); 10 points for battery electric vehicles; 15 points for AFV medium- and heavy-duty vehicles; and 25 points for demonstrating that 15% of the fleet (excluding student transport vehicles Class A, Class B, Class C, and Class D) comprises AFVs. Documentation of current vehicle registration is required; for the 25 point level, submission of a current fleet inventory for the district is also required.

Energy Efficiency

Energy Tracking & Management: 10, 15, 20 Points

This action has been revised to update the requirements and point structure. The base 10 points remain unchanged, while the additional 10 points have been divided into two levels: 5 points for submitting a benchmarking report (e.g., from EPA’s ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager) and 5 points for demonstrating an active energy management process, such as having an energy management team or coordinator and proof of regular meetings. This revision recognizes schools and districts already managing their energy use and encourages others to establish a process for future certification cycles.

Digital Learning Practices

Personalized Learning and Growing Independent Learners: 15 Points

The update introduces a new submission structure: a new Administrative Form documents schoolwide planning, staff development, and evaluation processes; and two revised Teacher Forms—each from different content areas. These forms now include a summary of the personalized lesson or project, supporting documentation, three student personalized learning plans, and a teacher reflection on the impact of digital tools and strategies.

Previous Program Updates

View Sustainable Jersey for School's Previous Program Updates to learn more about the modifications made in the past.