The state on Thursday named National School District in the South Bay one of California’s 2026 “Green Achiever” school districts for environmental achievements.
Officials recognized the district and four other recipients for their “outstanding efforts in resource conservation, health promotion, and environmental literacy” as part of the California Green Ribbon Schools awards.
National was one of two districts earning the highest level award, along with three schools.
The state cited National, based in National City, for several milestones, including savings of over 1 million gallons of water annually, 1,000-plus tons of waste diverted and a 13% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Officials credited both operational upgrades and student-led initiatives for the gains.
The district, according to the state, also has partnerships with organizations such as Rady Children’s Hospital, Olivewood Gardens, Ocean Connectors and Tree San Diego in the effort to engage families and the community “to embed sustainability into daily life.”
“Our California Green Ribbon Schools reflect the very best of what is possible when innovation, equity, and environmental stewardship come together,” State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond said.
He offered congratulations to districts “particularly in communities that have been historically underserved – and for empowering students with the knowledge and skills to address climate resiliency and critical local challenges.”
National School District serves 90% low-income, English-learner, foster, or homeless students; the student body is 95% Latino and Filipino. The elementary school district has 10 campuses with about 4,000 students enrolled.
The Green Ribbon Schools program evaluates applications from public schools, districts and county offices of education to recognize outstanding achievements in environmental excellence, according to Thurmond’s office. There are four levels of honors; Green Achiever tops the list, followed by gold, silver and bronze designations.
National was the only district-level honoree in San Diego County. The other district receiving top honors are from San Mateo County.
The state also honored 26 schools, three of which reached Green Achiever status. One local school, Tierra del Sol Middle School in the Lakeside Union Elementary School District, received a bronze award.
City News Service contributed to this report.
