Earning Points

Competition Rules:

Schools complete various tasks throughout the year to accrue points. Schools will begin with basic requirements in September, will continue to explore various topics throughout the year, and finish the program in April by evaluating and celebrating their work. Within each topic, schools will have an opportunity to submit proof of their participation and initiatives. Schools will be awarded various prizes according to the number of points they accrue through participation in activities throughout the year. See Awards & Prizes.

All work submitted will be considered for awards at the end-of-year awards ceremony. If schools are tied with the same amount of points, a third party will determine the winner of a particular award category based on the evaluation criteria outlined in defined rubrics. Results are final and judges’ rubrics are not shared.

Basic requirements for school participation. Starting the program in September:

Activities from October through March:

  • Schools can earn up to 60 points for participating in main topics.
  • The maximum points a school can earn regardless of how many activities or when they are done is the same per theme (10 points). If schools are creating their own, a lesson plan must be included along with the submission form.
  • Points breakdown chart
  • Rubrics are used to award points for participation in activities. See here for the rubric.

Bonus activities throughout the year:

  • Schools can earn up to 50 points for participating in community involvement activities.
  • Schools do not have to participate in any of these activities, but are encouraged to participate in as many as possible.
  • Points breakdown chart
  • Rubrics are used to award points for participation in activities. See Bonus Activities page for more detailed information.

End of Year Evaluation:

  • Schools can earn up to 60 points for completing end-of-year teacher survey, hosting an Eco-Summit, and submitting their School Environmental Goals Assessment.
  • Points breakdown chart
  • Rubrics are used to award points for participation in activities. See End of Year Activities page for more detailed information.