Morristown Charter School Earns Sustainability Certification

MORRISTOWN, NJ—Unity Charter School was one of just nine schools in Morris County to earn a 2020 Sustainable Jersey for Schools certification this month.

Sustainable Jersey For Schools is a nonprofit organization supports and rewards pre-k through 12th grade schools as they pursue environmentally-friendly, sustainable programs. The certifications are awarded yearly.

"Being recognized as a Silver honoree by Sustainable Jersey for Schools is an honor, as it shows our commitment to the environment as well as the campus we operate in," said Unity's Executive Director, Connie Sanchez.

Unity Charter was one of only six to receive a silver certification, which denotes a minimum of 350 points of sustainability actions. These actions include improvements in energy efficiency, food and sanitation, green design and purchasing, air quality improvement, and other measures.

Each school that is certified at the silver level must submit documentation to show it has completed a balanced portfolio and continues to take measures to increase sustainable green initiatives.

According to its website, Unity Charter is a "tuition-free public elementary school that provides a holistic, student-centered learning experience, where academic excellence is infused with sustainability education and stewardship."

Sanchez said the certification was part of a team effort, and that Unity is looking to continue the sustainable green initiatives moving forward.

"This recognition wasn’t earned by one person," said Unity's Executive Director, Connie Sanchez. "It was a community effort organized by our Supervisor of Curriculum and Sustainability Coordinator, Jennifer Carich. Under her guidance our Green Team, which was composed of students, teachers, administrators, parents and community members, came together to build upon many of the incredible sustainable practices taking place at Unity."