Humphreys Central Elementary Selected as 2024 Green Ribbon School

Humphreys Central Elementary School (HCES) located at Camp Humphreys, Korea has been selected as a 2024 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools award honoree. 

Humphreys Central Elementary School was nominated by the Department of Defense Education Activity. The environmentally forward Green Ribbon-select school opened its doors in 2013, as a new Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) school at U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys in South Korea.

Through strategic measures such as installing timed sensor lights, sensor-flush toilets, low-flow water fixtures, and energy-efficient climate systems, the school has significantly reduced its environmental footprint. 

Initiatives such as a solar-powered LED lighting system along the front of the building, hazardous materials lockers, and a comprehensive composting program underscore HCES's commitment to sustainability. The school fosters a holistic approach to health education, with programs including The Great Body Shop curriculum promoting well-being and home-school connections. Beyond the classroom, HCES prioritizes outdoor time and physical activity through extended recess periods and diverse Physical Education classes. 

The Monday Eagle News “Mindful Mango” broadcasts encourage self-care, while the establishment of an Outdoor Makerspace provides hands-on learning opportunities. HCES's community garden serves as a hub for healthy eating and community engagement with events like the Fall Activity Expo promoting fitness and connection. HCES utilizes a drip irrigation system and a green-powered electric car to educate students on sustainable practices.

The school's commitment to sustainability extends to its curriculum, with a STEAM program emphasizing innovation and global collaboration. From monthly challenges using recycled materials to partnerships with national parks for conservation projects, HCES empowers students to lead in environmental stewardship. Through initiatives such as the DoDEA Sunflower Project and Earth Day celebrations, HCES instills a sense of environmental responsibility in its students. After-school events and community outreach further reinforce the school's dedication to sustainability and well-being. 

“This Green Ribbon award recognizes Humphreys Central Elementary School’s commitment to high-quality, engaging environmental education activities and sustainable practices,” said DoDEA Pacific West District Superintendent Dr. Jacob Sherwood. “Earlier this week, our Eagles could be found on campus planting flowers, composting, and creating bird feeders using renewable resources in observation of Earth Day.”

In total, 41 schools, 10 districts, three postsecondary institutions, and one early learning center were honored for their innovative efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, improve health and wellness, and ensure effective sustainability education. The honorees were named from a pool of candidates nominated by 24 states. 

For more information on the Green Ribbon Awards see the list of all selected schools, districts, colleges, and universities, as well as their nomination packages. Read a report with highlights on the 55 honorees. Learn more about the federal recognition award. Find resources for all schools to move toward the three Pillars.  

DoDEA plans, directs, coordinates, and manages pre-kindergarten through 12th grade education programs for school-age children of Department of Defense personnel who would otherwise not have access to high-quality public education. DoDEA schools are in Europe, the Pacific, Western Asia, the Middle East, Cuba, the United States, Guam, and Puerto Rico. DoDEA also provides support and resources to local educational agencies throughout the United States that serve children of military families.