Eight schools in Gloucester, including seven Gloucester public schools, have been named Virginia Naturally Schools in recognition of their high quality environmental education.

VA Naturally School is the state’s official environmental education school recognition program of the commonwealth. It recognizes the efforts of Virginia schools to increase environmental awareness and stewardship among students. 

In their first year of recognition in the program, schools receive a VA Naturally plaque. Schools maintaining and continuing their efforts in upcoming years receive a pennant featuring one of Virginia’s state symbols, with a different pennant available for each additional year the school participates. 

Bethel Elementary, Botetourt Elementary, Petsworth Elementary and Page Middle School received the VA Naturally recognition for the first time this year. 

Abingdon Elementary was recognized for two years in the program, Achilles Elementary was recognized for...