When it comes to being green, Michigan schools take Earth Day and everyday seriously. Effective May 22, 2006, Michigan schools participating in 10 energy savings and environmental activities would be designated a “Green School”. Observing Earth Day, April 22nd this year, is just one of the many possible activities that count toward the designation. Others include recycling everything from newspapers and magazines to printer cartridges, batteries and cellular phones to establishing a garden project or hosting a ecological spokesperson for an educational program.
Oakland County Schools have taken “Green Schools” to a new level by offering higher environmental designations. Emerald and Evergreen awards go to schools completing 15 and 20 activities respectively. They also encourage additional activities like recycling plastic bottles, computers, metal cans and CD’s and composting food and organic waste at schools and conducting a waste-free lunch program.
I spoke with Julie LaBurn, Vice Principal at Pierce Elementary School in Birmingham. They are proud to have advanced their Emerald designation to Evergreen for 2010. Seventy two other Oakland County Schools achieved Evergreen status this year, followed by 55 Emerald schools and 43 Green schools. This is the third year of the Michigan Green Schools program and the first year of the Evergreen designation. The number of Oakland County Schools up for the challenge increased over 73% over last year, an amazing achievement indeed.
As a celebration of the 40th Earth Day, Pierce Elementary students were challenged to create an art project that demonstrated how they care for themselves and the earth. Their Earth Day Art Show was sponsored for the second year by Root and Sprout, a local eco-boutique in downtown Birmingham. Almost one hundred kids participated with 80 entries.
“Our customers love to see the art work in the store and it really demonstrates what we’re about too. We love to be involved in the community and give back.” Says Kelly Daniels, Root and Sprout Co-owner
And they are giving back! Kids who participate in the art show get a goody bag including Smencils, organic lollipops by Yummy Earth and a coupon for a free cupcake from the new Just Baked store on Woodward in Royal Oak. Art is critiqued for originality, neatness and message. Winners will take home a Goodbyn Lunch Box in the color of their choice.
“These lunch boxes are made right here in Michigan and eliminate the need for plastic baggies, they’re very eco-friendly and the kids love them” says Daniels.
