The Overlake School was recognized by the King County Green Schools Program as a Sustaining Green School for 2015-16.

According to a press release, the Redmond school “initiated and sustained a variety of environmental education and service projects, as well as earth-friendly actions, and has integrated green practices at all levels of the organization. In 2015, the school installed compost equipment to break down food scraps on campus, and used the compost in campus gardens.”

Overlake was one of six schools recognized for Green Schools achievements.

“King County Green Schools Program directly supports our goal of increasing the county’s recycling rate from 54 percent to 70 percent by 2020,” said Pat McLaughlin, director of the King County Solid Waste Division.

The Green Schools Program involves students and school employees in learning about and practicing resource conservation. Participating schools and school districts have reported saving money through reduced garbage volumes and decreased energy and water use.

Dale Alekel, Green Schools Program manager, said: “Participating schools are initiating or improving sustainable practices and are teaching students and employees about conservation.”