Alexandria City Public Schools took first place in the Student Population 10,001 and Up category of the 2009 Virginia School Boards Association Green Schools Challenge. The VSBA Green contest, in its first year, is a competition predicated upon encouraging the implementation of specific environmental policies and practical actions that reduce the carbon emissions generated by both the local school division and the broader community.

Nine school divisions received top awards in three student population categories. Award presentations took place at the VSBA annual conventions opening general session on November 18 in Williamsburg. Winning school systems were selected from more than 51 entries and 30 school divisions were recognized as certified green school divisions.