Three schools have proven it pays to reduce, reuse and recycle. Lake Wylie Elementary, Jay M. Robinson Middle and Providence High schools were recognized for its recycling programs at the May 14 Mecklenburg County Solid Waste Department awards luncheon. The three schools were recognized for their innovative approaches to waste disposal, waste reduction and commitment to recycling. Each school received a certificate of appreciation framed in recycled bicycle tires and a $500 shopping spree to buy supplies for its recycling program. Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioner chair Jennifer Roberts presented the awards during the ceremony.
Lake Wylie Elementary
Being “green” has encouraged positive behavioral changes at Lake Wylie Elementary. Since 2004, Student Council members have collected paper from classroom recycling bins where they take it outside to the school’s paper/cardboard recycling dumpster. The school created the Green Team recycling club three years ago for environmental enthusiasts and this year’s membership totals nearly 100 students. Some of the club’s activities include collecting bottles and cans and hosting guest speakers to talk about recycling initiatives and programs. The club has distributed curbside recycling bins to families and created recycling games for students at its annual fall festival.
Jay M. Robinson Middle
Jay M. Robinson’s recycling program was created four years ago and is run by students in its Autism Education Program. The students are helping improve the school environment by collecting recyclables twice a week and are building valuable job skills at the same time. By hanging out with the rest of the student population, they are able to connect with staff and students. They practice their greetings, conversational tones and problem-solving skills. They also collect materials from teachers and students to be reused for classroom projects and art work.
Providence High School
Providence High School has learned going green is the best way to go. The School’s Occupational Course of Study (OCS) students have led the recycling program for six years. The program helps the OCS students earn hours toward their diploma. During their ninth and 10th grade years, OCS students must earn 300 hours of school-based training. They gain these skills by researching what items are recyclable and then collecting them from bins around the school. The recycling program has helped staff and students participate together in an effort to help promote a worthy cause.