EL MONTE – El Monte Union High School District has been recognized as a leader in promoting green initiatives in its schools, implementing green school practices in its operations Districtwide and fostering environmental sustainability in the classroom.

Green Technology – a nonprofit initiative that informs government efforts toward sustainability and promotes the development and distribution of green technologies – honored the District for its efforts with a Leadership Award at its annual Green California Schools and Community Colleges Summit and Exposition on Oct. 16.

“Critical to our success has been our collective commitment to integrating environmental accountability into every facet of our operation, from facilities to the classroom,” EMUHSD Facility and Energy Manager Lena Luna said. “We have made great strides in transforming El Monte Union as a model District in 21st century sustainability and energy.”

El Monte Union is a Green Ribbon School District and Energy Star leader, recognized by both the state and U.S. Department of Education for its pioneering efforts to maintain safe learning environments through environmental conservation efforts. Its energy and sustainability program are driven by its policies on Green School Operations, Energy and Waste Management; Integrated Waste Management; and Evaluating Existing Buildings.

The District has installed over 30 electric car charging stations across the District and most campuses have new solar panel carports, which are expected to generate over 60% of the District’s annual energy needs. Projects include LED lighting replacement Districtwide and replacement of 270 HVAC units with energy-efficient systems. Mountain View High School Zoo Crew engineering programs address environmental sustainability in city development by preserving natural resources. In 2019, the Board of Trustees passed resolutions to reduce polystyrene foam use and to call for climate change action.

“Through the support and leadership of our Board of Trustees, we are proud to have become a leader in green school operations and facilities, helping to save our District money, preserve natural resources and ensure our students have healthy environments in which to learn and achieve,” Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said.

PHOTO CAPTION:

110419_EMUHSD_GREENLEADER: El Monte Union was recently honored with a Leadership Award from nonprofit Green Technology for its innovative approach to promoting green initiatives in its schools and across the District. Pictured are Chief Business Officer Wael Elatar (left), Facility and Energy Manager Lena Luna and Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga.