Green Schools Program: Creating Sustainable Learning Environments

The Green Schools Program from MiGBC is dedicated to building a healthier, more sustainable future by empowering students, teachers, and parents through hands-on service learning. Our mission is to cultivate greener, healthier spaces for learning across Michigan—where future generations can thrive.

Sustainable Spotlight Scholarship

The Builders Exchange of Michigan and MiGBC have established a scholarship fund that will assist Michigan students pursuing LEED Green Associate accreditation. The fund will provide financial assistance covering related exam fees.

Educating Future Leaders in Sustainability

The Michigan Green Building Collaborative staff, members, and supporters are available for presentations on green building design & operation, energy efficiency, emission reductions, sustainable cities and more. We offer expert guidance on practically any topic related to a healthy built environment. Reach out to discuss your needs and we’ll work to develop a custom discussion for your group.

Our team has had the privilege of presenting at various local organizations where we’ve shared insights on fostering more sustainable communities.

Interested in having a MiGBC representative speak to your class, workplace, or group?

Program Highlights

Green Building Design and Innovation

We offer presentations and immersive events focused on green building design, construction, and operation. Our workshops introduce schools and organizations to innovative concepts and practices that promote sustainability in the built environment.

Hands-On Learning

Our Energy Assistance Program incorporated hands-on opportunities to learn about energy auditing for students and community members. Participants gained practical experience while working alongside industry professionals in community audits.

Watch the Video

Sustainability Career Exploration

We organize events that connect students with industry professionals to explore career opportunities in sustainability and green jobs. These events foster collaboration between educational institutions and provide valuable insights into the field.

Watch the Video

Students for Sustainability

In 2018, we hosted a two-day event where Grand Rapids Community College students partnered with K-12 students from Grand Rapids Public Schools to audit a GRCC building. They presented their findings to GRPS administrators and engaged in a Q&A with local industry professionals, gaining insights into sustainable design and career pathways. This video showcases the project outcomes.

Baxter Community Center

The Baxter Community Center participated in the Grand Rapids 2030 District Energy Assistance Program which facilitated energy audits for participating organizations. Their audit was particularly special because it involved the community members that participated at the center. This gave many an opportunity to shadow an energy audit and learn about integrated architecture and building science.

Michigan Green Schools Program

The Michigan Green Schools Program supports and celebrates the achievements of PreK-12 schools in protecting the state’s air, land, water, and ecosystems through their commitments to environmental education and stewardship actions.

To receive Green School certification, a school must document completion of at least 10 approved environmental activities. Schools can achieve one of three status levels, depending on the number of activities documented:

  • Michigan Green School Status: 10-14 activities
  • Michigan Emerald School: 15-19 activities
  • Michigan Evergreen School: 20 or more activities

View the Green Activities page to learn more about what these activities entail.

Then see the online application form at the bottom of this page to apply for certification during the 2025 application window of January 1-March 9! Schools must renew their certification each year.