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The Edutopia Poll
by Sara Bernard
Many students and teachers across the nation are actively involved in Earth-friendly ventures. For many schools, the recycling program is first on the agenda. In some places, however, recycling is still very difficult to do, or even unheard of. What is the status of recycling in America’s schools? What can be done to increase their size and scope? Tell us what you think.
School-wide recycling program
Submitted by Michelle (not verified) on March 24, 2008 - 17:53.
Our school has a school-wide recycling program also, but I love that we announce how much money our school received due to their efforts in recycling. This is usually announced on our morning announcements each month. This is almost an "instant" for the kids...and - since we live in a world of instants - it really gets them motivated to recycle!
Everyone helps with school recycling
Submitted by Susan VonderHaar (not verified) on October 30, 2007 - 10:14.
I have helped coordinate school recycling at two of my children's schools. We are very fortunate in Hamilton County, Ohio to have assistance from our Solid Waste District for resources and educational information to get recycling going. The key to starting and maintaining school recycling is involving everyone in the process. The janitorial staff does not have to bear the burden and cause objection if each classroom manages their own recyclables. Cardboard boxes work fine, you don't need fancy bins. Students are more than willing to help out, then the adults can't refuse. Don't give up!
Green Team
Submitted by Patrick Ormond (not verified) on October 17, 2007 - 09:13.
Our school utilizes a "Green Team" of 45 students to collect all paper and cardboard from our school. To date, we have recyclyed 62 tons of paper from our school and community. The Green Team has learned the benefits of recycling and keeping our community clean. I only wish everyone had the enthusiasm to recycle as much as this group of kids!
Recycling involves many
Submitted by Lorraine (not verified) on October 17, 2007 - 07:20.
This year, we have a designated committee of administrators: Green Team/Gang Green who will look into recycling paper and cardboard, with students helping. It is complicated because refuse pick-up is contracted out for the year in most schools, other issues include insurance, unions, red tape (let's hope the red tape is recycleable!). To do it right, all these concerns have to be addressed without adverse effects on anyone, if it is be a permanent district-wide policy, which is the main goal. We are all excited about this and hope to have it in place before the school year ends.
This is the second school I
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on October 15, 2007 - 08:42.
This is the second school I have worked in which did not have a recycling program in place. I have run an Environmental Club at both schools and we got a program up and running. However, I think all schools should have a recycling plan in place. How can we expect our students to take responsibility for our earth when their school is creating tons of waste and not recycling anything? It is hard to change adults' habits, but if we get our children recycling and understanding the importance of protecting our planet we will be making a huge difference. It should be a law that schools recycle, and it shouldn't be the students collecting recyclables and putting it out by the curb. It should all be part of school maintenance.
School Recycling
Submitted by PEJEAN (not verified) on October 11, 2007 - 13:47.
I and our students recycle plastic bottles and aluminum cans that they find on campus or after they used up all their water from their bottle that they buy from us. We sell H2O bottles for $ .50 and use the money as a PE Fundraiser. We purchase more H2O with that money. Kids recycle and get a Way-To-Be slip for each bottle/can. The slips go into a container for raffle prizes each month. They stay hydrated and have a chance to be a BIG winner.
Schools Recycling
Submitted by PEJEAN (not verified) on October 11, 2007 - 13:39.
My school has Planet Protectors who go to each classroom and offices to empty the blue recycling cans. Those kids are in ASB.They wear a special windbreaker with that name on it.
I, the Physical Education Specialist recycle all one sided paper to use for class work. I also provided staff a box in the workroom to save the one sided paper for me. I use this paper in my printer also. Parents really appreciate those efforts to save the earth as does our students.
Green Schools
Submitted by Chuck (not verified) on October 11, 2007 - 13:09.
"there oughta be a law...." that requires "green" in all curricula and all school capital projects.
Local districts should view and take to heart what Harvard has done with its old campus or what Oberlin College has done with its newer construction.
Recyle yes, but we must go far beyond that if there is to be a future for today's students to enjoy.
Teach balance, not win-lose. New math, waste = food!
Recycling
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on March 19, 2008 - 17:41.
I agree, we need to go a step beyond. The school I work in has recycling bins but they are rarely emptied and oftentimes I see recyclable items in the trash. All day long I see waste, waste, and more waste. Students rip new fresh paper and through it around the room or use it as a basketball. Paper is never reused and food waste is incredible. I just think that recycling paper and plastic is the very very basic that any school should do.. there is so much more!
Recycling plastic bags
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on October 11, 2007 - 10:09.
The school district that my children go to is collecting plastic bags (Grocery) from everyone in the community for the next month. Our local Wal-mart is donating money to the school based upon the number of bags collected.
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