During the recent three-day, sold-out 2023 Green Schools Conference (GSC) held in New Orleans, EcoRise led the partner track including attendees from nonprofits, government organizations and other green school community leaders.

Attendees participated in workshops that explored the state of K–12 green schools and had the opportunity to examine various issues impacting the green schools movement, including social vulnerability, environmental pollutants, climate risk, health, workforce development and green infrastructure. This was the first time this group of green school supporters could participate in cohort dialogue, workshops and activities together at the conference.

What attendees were excited to talk about

Discussing what octopus, slime mold and ant colonies can teach us about resilience, adaptation and emergence.
Exploring the interplay between green schools and social justice, workforce development and green buildings.
Generating a vision and manifesto for a generous, thriving and just green school ecosystem.

A group of teachers works on a drawing in a workshop.

Track attendees participated in activities and discussions. Image credit: Zack Smith.

What attendees are saying

“We found the Green Schools Conference to be a valuable experience. It provided a great opportunity to learn from experts in the field, network with other professionals, and gain new insights and perspectives on current trends and best practices in green building. By staying up to date on the latest trends and developments in green building, we are better equipped to make informed decisions and take action to advance sustainability in our projects and communities.” —Track attendee
“Attending conferences like the Green Schools Conference can be an excellent way to stay current in your field and connect with other like-minded professionals who share our passion for sustainable schools.” —Track attendee
“I appreciate the exercises that enabled us to connect with many different people around the room!” —Track attendee

What attendees learned and are acting on

Attendees left the conference with new knowledge, strategies and action plans, including

Turning to nature as a mentor and learning how to apply the proven strategies of the natural world to our organizational and societal challenges.
Exploring our field through the lens of systems change, identifying patterns, strengths and pressure points for action.
Building strategic partnerships and enduring collaborations that create mutual benefit.

Stay up to date on plans for the 2024 GSC

Recap: The Advocates, Government and Community Partners track at GSC