New Jersey Schools Recognized for Sustainability Leadership in 2025 Awards
on Oct 21, 2025
Three Long Branch schools earn Sustainability Champion honors; Howell Township and Metuchen districts recognized for forward-thinking, collaborative programs
Today, Sustainable Jersey for Schools announced the three schools and two school districts that received 2025 Annual Awards. Representatives accepted their awards at a luncheon held in Atlantic City at the New Jersey School Boards Association’s Workshop 2025.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of Sustainable Jersey for Schools advancing sustainability in New Jersey’s public schools. Since its launch, the program has grown to include 1,223 schools across New Jersey that are driving change on critical issues such as energy use, waste reduction, climate education, and digital learning.
In addition to the annual award winners, 176 schools achieved Sustainable Jersey for Schools certification, and 22 schools earned Digital Schools Star recognition as part of their certification. (See the full list of 2025 Sustainable Jersey for Schools Certified Schools.)
2025 SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPION AWARDS
For schools certified with the highest number of points in their category--elementary, middle, or high school:
- George L. Catrambone Elementary School, Long Branch Public School District (Monmouth County)
- Long Branch Middle School, Long Branch Public School District (Monmouth County)
- Long Branch High School, Long Branch Public School District (Monmouth County)
2025 SUSTAINABILITY MAKES $ENSE AWARD
For a district that has achieved substantial budgetary savings through implementation of Sustainable Jersey for Schools actions:
Howell Township School District (Monmouth County)
Howell Township School District received this award in recognition of its comprehensive Energy Savings Improvement Program (ESIP) and district-wide sustainability initiatives that have delivered significant cost savings while advancing environmental stewardship. The district’s extensive solar energy project—spanning 12 schools—has reduced the district’s carbon footprint by 3,821 tons of carbon dioxide annually while providing climate-controlled learning environments across all schools.
2025 GREEN TEAM COLLABORATION AWARD
For municipal and school green teams working together to advance sustainability:
Metuchen Public School District and Metuchen Borough (Middlesex County)
Metuchen Public School District participated in the town’s Green Fair in August 2025, strengthening partnerships with the Metuchen Environmental Commission and Shade Tree Commission. Through the High School Tree Ambassadors program, students have led lessons, community workshops, and tree plantings, while Commission members supported planning for a successful Trees for Schools grant awarded earlier this year. Looking ahead, the district is developing a food recovery program in collaboration with the municipality and local nonprofit partners. Together, these initiatives are creating hands-on learning experiences for students and meaningful opportunities for the community to learn and grow together.
Sustainable Jersey Executive Director Randall Solomon said, “The schools and districts recognized today represent the best of what’s possible when sustainability becomes part of a school’s culture. Their leadership, creativity, and collaboration are helping to build stronger communities and a more sustainable future for New Jersey.”
Award winners are selected from schools that achieved certification in the designated award year.