San Diego County School District Earns 'Green Achiever' Award

SAN DIEGO, CA — A school district in San Diego County was honored as one of five Green Achievers in California.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced Thursday that 26 schools, 12 school districts, and one county office of education were honored with the 2026 California Green Ribbon Schools awards.

Five schools or school districts in the Golden State earned the highest distinction as Green Achievers, including National School District in the South Bay region of the county. Tierra del Sol Middle School in Lakeside Union Elementary School District earned a bronze award.

"Our California Green Ribbon Schools reflect the very best of what is possible when innovation, equity, and environmental stewardship come together," Thurmond said. "I congratulate this year's honorees for their leadership in creating healthy, sustainable learning environments — particularly in communities that have been historically underserved — and for empowering students with the knowledge and skills to address climate resiliency and critical local challenges."

The California Green Ribbon Schools Award program evaluates applications from public schools, districts, and county offices of education to recognize outstanding achievements in environmental excellence. Green Achievers are recognized for their outstanding efforts in resource conservation, health promotion and environmental literacy, according to the California Department of Education.