The Encinitas Union School District was nominated Thursday to compete in the U.S. Department of Education's Green Ribbon Schools program.
The federal program honors energy efficiency, education on sustainability, and student health and wellness improvements.
Nominated by the state Department of Education along with the Encinitas district were Lowell and Twain Elementary Schools of Long Beach and San Domenico School of San Anselmo.
"I am proud to recognize these outstanding schools and district for their comprehensive efforts to green their campuses, their communities, and our state,'' state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson said. "Together with efficient facilities and good health practices, a strong eco-literacy education develops students into citizens who will be lifelong stewards of our environment.''
Torlakson said the Encinitas Union School District has reduced lunchtime waste by 85 percent by recycling and composting, has two large-scale organic farming efforts, takes part in farm-to-cafeteria programs and participates in National Wildlife Federation programs.
The district serves 5,400 K-6 grade students in nine elementary schools, all of which have been recognized as California Distinguished Schools.
National winners will be honored in July.
