Grand Erie Goes Green as 38 Schools Earn EcoSchools
Certification
Grand Erie District School Board students and staff are doing their part to ensure a healthier future for the planet. More than half of the board’s 72 schools were rewarded for their environmental efforts in 2018-19 with 38 earning EcoSchools Certification.
“We’re extremely proud of what our EcoTeams have achieved this year,” said Katie Hashimoto, Supervisor of Energy and Environmental Conservation at the Board. “Fostering student leadership and becoming stronger environmental stewards is part of the EcoSchools certification process. What these schools are doing will have a lasting impact.”
As the world comes face-to-face with the realities of climate change, Grand Erie students are leading the way with big and small modifications that make a significant difference. From introducing recycling programs, encouraging waste-free lunches, energy conservation programs and school grounds greening projects, the EcoSchools program provides a framework for building environmentally responsible schools. The EcoTeams also take on the task of student-centred actions and goal setting.
Three Grand Erie schools earned Platinum EcoSchools certification, the highest level of recognition. They include Bellview Public School, École Confédération and Pauline Johnson Collegiate and Vocational School. Additionally, 14 schools were awarded gold certification, 14 earned silver, and seven collected bronze. In total, 31 elementary schools and seven secondary schools were honoured.
“Our hope is that the EcoSchools program will continue to grow and flourish within the board,” said Hashimoto. “It’s the dedication of these students who are changing attitudes and cultures within their schools, at home and in the community.”
The EcoSchools program connects to Grand Erie’s Multi-Year Plan, Success for Every Student, through the Environment indicator and the goal of “improving energy and environmental conservation at all sites.”
Platinum EcoSchools:
Gold EcoSchools:
Silver EcoSchools:
Bronze EcoSchools:
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