Two Issaquah School District schools will receive cash awards for their outstanding environmental programs.

Samantha Smith Elementary in Sammamish, and Newcastle Elementary in Newcastle will both receive $300 as part of the Washington Department of Ecology’s Sustainable School Program, which recognizes current or on-going school programs that focus on waste reduction, recycling and sustainability.

Samantha Smith and Newcastle were heralded for school wide expansion of recycling and compost activities.

Newcastle was also recognized for encouraging alternative commute options and energy conservation.

The two schools were part of a group of 45 public and private schools from across Washington that were rewarded for sustaining ongoing waste reduction efforts, starting new environmental programs, or developing and implementing innovative curricula.

For more information about the Department of Ecology’s support of environmental programs in schools, visit www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/swfa.

The Issaquah School District continues to be a leader in promoting conservation efforts at local schools. In the past, a number of schools in Issaquah, Sammamish and Renton have developed unique and effective recycling and waste management programs, with the help of district staff.