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Marylin Avenue STEAM Academy in Livermore has been recognized once again by the California Department of Education for its efforts in resource conservation, promotion of health and wellness as well as environmental literacy.
Named a 2026 California Green Ribbon School, Marylin swooped a Gold-level honor for the second consecutive year.
The Livermore-based school stands as the sole Tri-Valley honoree this year among just 26 schools statewide.
“Our California Green Ribbon Schools reflect the very best of what is possible when innovation, equity and environmental stewardship come together,” State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond said in a statement Feb. 12 announcing this year’s winners.
“We are incredibly proud to highlight the hard work and dedication that our students demonstrate each day as responsible stewards of their environment,” Marylin principal Joe Meunier said in a statement. “Their daily, thoughtful choices, influenced by their impactful project-based lessons and learning, have led to meaningful outcomes that really make a difference for our entire community.”
Among Marylin’s newest efforts in environmental education and health is its newly renovated garden, according to Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District officials.
This spring, students will begin planting the garden. The space will allow for students’ hands-on learning, grades TK through fifth. Visiting twice monthly, they can take part in growing and cultivating fruits, vegetables and herbs.
Through their experience gardening, students will become increasingly aware of how food is produced and they will develop their environmental leadership skills, according to district officials.
“All Marylin students including those with exceptional support needs (ESN) will have access to a well-planned and innovative garden environment that will enhance their experiential learning,” STEAM instructional coach Shannon Higgins said in a statement.
The garden has been possible thanks to teachers Anne Rosendin and Joanna Martinez, Higgins added.
Students also practice waste reduction on a daily basis by sorting recyclables and compostable items. An AI-based program for monitoring waste helps track their efforts.
The school’s mission of waste reduction continues to advance thanks in part to the Alameda County Waste Management Authority, Go Green Initiative, Fertile Groundworks and Livermore Sanitation, according to the district.
In addition to the campus’ solar array that provides all of the site’s electricity needs, several green energy modernizations were also completed last fall using bond funding.
The school has reduced its energy costs and impacts to the environment through the installation of energy-efficient LED lighting and HVAC systems, a bio-retention system to replenish groundwater with stormwater, irrigation timers that reduce water use, as well as native, drought-tolerant landscaping.
“Marylin Avenue STEAM Academy continues to make strong academic progress, and our Green Ribbon recognition reflects the depth and diversity of learning experiences we provide,” Meunier said.
