Saddleback Valley
Unified School District

April 25, 2025

In this episode of SV Connects, see how the SVUSD Food Services team prepares and delivers over 3 million fresh, nutritious meals each year through California’s Universal Meals Program. With diverse menu options, a focus on sustainability, and support for all dietary needs, students are fueled for success every day.

SV Connects is the Saddleback Valley Unified School District’s monthly video series that showcases the moments that unite us as a school district, reflecting our unwavering commitment to every student, every family, and every community member. Through this video series, we celebrate the inspiring stories and innovative practices that define SVUSD, highlighting the connections that empower our students to thrive.

El Toro High School (ETHS) has been named a 2025 California Green Ribbon School by the California Department of Education. The recognition celebrates ETHS’s efforts in reducing environmental impact, promoting health and wellness, and integrating sustainability into student learning.

El Toro now joins Santiago and Trabuco elementary schools as SVUSD’s third Green Ribbon School—a testament to the district’s growing leadership in environmental stewardship.

ETHS has made major strides in campus sustainability, including installing solar panels, upgrading to energy-efficient lighting, and reducing water usage by 42%. The school also diverts 50% of its waste from landfills and has moved toward digital tools to cut down on paper usage. Health and wellness initiatives include the use of green cleaning products, upgraded HVAC systems, and The rETreat—a dedicated student wellness center created in partnership with the Children’s Hospital of Orange County and the Orange County Department of Education.

Sustainability is also woven into the student experience at ETHS. Through the STEAM Academy and Green Campus Action Plans, students are encouraged to tackle real-world challenges through project-based learning and cross-disciplinary coursework.

“Being named a 2025 California Green Ribbon School is a profound honor that reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainability, student wellness, and environmental education,” Principal Dr. Jimmy Martin shared. “This recognition celebrates the collective efforts of our students, staff, and community in creating a learning environment that not only educates but also inspires stewardship of our planet. We are proud to stand among California's leading schools dedicated to fostering a greener, healthier future for all.”

This recognition is a proud milestone for ETHS and a reflection of SVUSD’s continued commitment to creating greener, healthier learning environments.