The national “Green Ribbon Schools” recognition and award program was developed by a strong collaboration of organizations and individuals that share a common concern: Children are increasingly disconnected from nature and play outdoors. We believe there are key and essential benefits to children's health, development and well-being through outdoor play, experiencing and discovering nature first-hand. We are committed to working together to help stop this alarming trend and provide opportunities for children to develop to their full potential by reconnecting children with the wonders of playing and learning in nature. We were inspired by the book, “Last Child in the Woods” by Richard Louv and the work of the Children and Nature Network.

Members include professionals from all walks of life: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department; Texas Education Agency; Texas Department of State Health Services; Texas Forestry Service; Service Learning Texas; Texas Action for Healthy Kids Alliance; Texas Pediatric Society; Campfire USA; 4empowerment; nature centers, zoos, park friends groups; university professors and researchers, real estate developers, architects, media and marketing professionals, and more.

Primary developers of the “Green Ribbon Schools” recognition program are: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 4empowerment, Texas Impact and Texas Department of State Health Services with primary review by: Association of Student Councils, Service Learning Texas, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas and the Texas Education Agency. The Children and Nature Network, to whom we owe much thanks for the use of "healthier, happier, smarter", provided invaluable support and research.