Green Holidays at Eddy Elementary School

 "'It's not like we have 20 earths, so we got to take care of our environment ... I hope this inspires you to recycle at home and to help the world more."

 — Justin Danielson, 10

Earth Club member, Eddy Elementary School

What is the Earth Club?

The Earth Club at Eddy Elementary School in Brewster is all about the environment. For twelve years fifth graders have recycled the school's trash and they even bring it home – the knowledge of recycling, that is. Justin Danielson, 10, and his fellow Earth Club members are doing what they can to clean up the planet and their school. Every year they recycle used material to craft holiday decorations which they sell to raise money. Over the holiday break they think about what to spend the money on with two conditions; keep the revenue within Brewster and spend it towards the environment.

What do the children learn?

At Eddy Elementary School the environmental dedication spills over into other areas, such as the cafeteria. The students eat with reusable cutlery on reusable trays, and they throw their leftovers in separate compost bins. Patsy Marchant, Science Curriculum Coordinator, says that not only does this teach them climate friendliness, but it also is in par with the science curriculum for year five.

What are the ripple effects of recycling at the school?

The students care about the planet so much that they're giving up their recess and lunch hour to meet for the Earth Club. The students are not shy to reprimand teachers who are forgetting to use the designated recycling bins when they collect recyclables from each class room. Wendy O'Brien, retired education assistant and founder of Earth Club, can see a growth of character and self esteem in the kids.

For more information:

• Brewster Recycling Center
• Eddy Elementary School Newsletter