Students at Green Woods Charter School in Roxborough are learning how to reduce the impacts of climate change and turn food waste into compost.

Their efforts have been recognized as they have earned a “green ribbon” in the process, writes Zoë Read for WHYY.

The U.S. Department of Education recognizes schools that save energy, have sustainable learning spaces, and offer environmental education.

“I just got full of joy, and really appreciative of the hard work we’ve been doing at our school, and we really deserved it,” said 8th grade student Chrisette King.

Each day, the students take science classes and participate in hands-on environmental projects that teach them how to reduce the impacts of climate change, improve water quality, and protect endangered species.

“I would hope students would leave here … become adults … and remember the small things they’ve learned here,” said the school’s CEO and Principal Debi Durso.

Environmental stewardship finds its way into various parts of the students’ school day.

For example, English classes incorporate literature with environmental themes and the playground’s slide has log steps rather than metal or plastic.

There are even posters in the school’s hallways that educate students about how to separate their trash. 

Read more about how Green Woods Charter School helps students embrace environmental stewardship in WHYY.

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