Angi Jefferies, the head custodian at Lea Hill Elementary, was among those recently honored as “Earth Heroes at School.”

Students, parents, teachers and staff members who share a passion for environmental conservation were honored by King County Executive Dow Constantine at a ceremony this month.

Jefferies was praised for her work with the lunchroom recycling program. She has trained students and staff to efficiently separate their recyclables, compostables and waste, and has trained fifth-grade Green Team members as lunchtime sorting supervisors.

Jefferies also was lauded for conscientiously and creatively recommending other green ideas to Lea Hill Principal Ed Herda.

Herda nominated Jefferies for involving the school and empowering the students to take an active role in protecting natural resources.

“These stewards of the environment are our heroes – for conserving resources, protecting the environment, and spreading the word about sustainable practices,” Constantine said. “I am proud to recognize them for their hands-on commitment to the planet.”

Constantine will present awards to Earth Heroes at 4:30 p.m. April 26 at Maplewood Greens, 4050 Maple Valley Highway, Renton.

The Earth Heroes at School Program celebrates students, teachers, staff and volunteers who implement projects at their school or beyond to protect the environment. Each year outstanding individuals, groups and programs in the county are recognized.

This year, the program recognizes one student, three student groups, four school programs, eight teachers and seven other school employees.