SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Three Illinois public elementary schools are competing for a national award that recognizes environmental efforts.

The Illinois State Board of Education on Thursday announced nominees for the "Green Ribbon" award. They include two in Mount Prospect — Indian Grove and Euclid schools — and Prairieview-Ogden South Elementary School in Ogden.

Indian Grove and Euclid pupils work together to maintain a community garden. Students at Prairieview-Ogden recycle juice pouches, chip bags and lunch containers.