Somerville Elementary Receives Sustainability Certification

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — Somerville Elementary School gained the Sustainable Jersey for Schools Certification for 2020, and is one of just 147 schools in the state to do so.

The Ridgewood school was given the bronze distinction, and is the only school in Bergen County to make the list.

"I am thrilled that we have earned a designation as a Sustainable School - Bronze Level," said Dr. Lorna Oates-Santos, principal of Somerville Elementary School.

“The team of teachers and parents who worked hard to document the robust initiatives at Somerville School are committed to continuing to reflect on our practices and refine our work around how we both educate all in the community about the impact we have on the health of the environment and the power we have to make positive change around us."

Sustainable Jersey for Schools is a voluntary certification program for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade schools.

Each school that is certified at the bronze level must submit documentation to show it has completed a balanced portfolio of the program’s sustainability actions, attaining a minimum of 150 points.

This year, six schools achieved certification at the more advanced silver level which requires a minimum of 350 points of sustainability actions.

"We were not sure what to expect after this difficult year, but the response has been inspiring. We’ve seen an increase in the number of certified schools since last year," said Randall Solomon, executive director of Sustainable Jersey.

"I commend the teachers, administrators, staff, parents and students for their commitment and vision for the future. Becoming certified with Sustainable Jersey for Schools is a significant achievement and these schools are leading the way to a more sustainable New Jersey, right when we need it the most."

According to Sustainable Jersey, 969 schools are registered with the program, as well as 353 districts.

Click here to view Somerville's full sustainability report

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