As New Jersey faces issues such as the climate crisis, a growing digital equity divide, increasing childhood asthma and environmental pollution, schools need to be a part of the solution to these challenges

Sustainable Jersey for Schools is a free, voluntary certification program for pre-kindergarten through twelfth-grade public schools in New Jersey. The program provides guidance, support, and recognition to schools that implement steps to be sustainable in their operations and proactive in preparing students for the challenges they will face in the future.

Sustainable Jersey for Schools certification actions cover a wide range of topic areas focusing on the three equal, interrelated components of sustainability: 1) People: contribute to a strong civil society that provides opportunity for all, 2) Prosperity: support local economies and wise use of community resources and 3) Planet: practice responsible environmental management and conservation.

Issues such as water scarcity, climate change, racism and environmental degradation require broad-based sustainability literacy to ensure that young people are equipped to recognize and respond to critical issues now and in their chosen careers. Sustainable Jersey participating schools serve as learning labs for these issues and the certification program supports educators by identifying authentic learning opportunities for students and staff.

Age Groups	Children Adolescents Adults Seniors
Community Services	Community Community Education Education Educational Services Employment / Training Life Skills Training Preparing for Adulthood Family & Support Services Adoption / Foster Care Caregiving Child Care / After School Divorce & Co-Parenting Family Support Grandparenting LGBTQ LGBTQ Parenting Parenting & Caregiving
Health Services	Behavioral / Mental Health Family Conflict & Distress Teen Issues Crisis / Safety Crisis / Safety / Prevention Emergency Preparedness Medical Health / Wellness / Nutrition

Last Updated: 06/05/21