Ellsworth Community School Earns Highest Distinction in Michigan Green Schools Program
Ellsworth, MI — Ellsworth Community School (ECS) has been recognized at the highest level of the Michigan Green Schools Program, earning Evergreen School status for the 2025–2026 school year. This designation represents the top achievement within the program and reflects a sustained commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainability, and responsible practices.
The Evergreen designation is awarded to schools that complete 20 or more approved environmental activities, demonstrating leadership in areas such as energy conservation, waste reduction, recycling, environmental education, and community engagement. ECS’s application recently received final approval from the Michigan Green Schools, administered through the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).
“This recognition is a reflection of the daily work happening throughout our school,” said Naomi Sponable, Principal of Ellsworth Community School. “Our students and staff consistently demonstrate care for their environment, and achieving Evergreen status shows that sustainability is embedded in our culture, not treated as a one-time project.”
Special recognition is extended to Robyn Gransow, Polly Johns, and Jennifer Woods for their leadership and dedication in coordinating and sustaining the efforts required to achieve Evergreen status.
“This accomplishment represents teamwork and long-term commitment,” Sponable added. “We are proud of the staff members who helped guide this work and of the students who continue to take ownership of being responsible environmental stewards.”
As an Evergreen School, Ellsworth Community School is authorized to display the Michigan Green Schools Evergreen insignia on school communications, including email signatures, the school website, and official materials. Award materials will be delivered to the school later this spring, in conjunction with Earth Day celebrations.
Ellsworth Community School remains committed to educating students academically while also preparing them to be thoughtful, responsible citizens who understand the importance of caring for their environment now and into the future.