St. Joseph-Scollard Hall received special recognition this week after successfully completing a year-long certification process to become a Gold-Level Ontario EcoSchool.
The provincial certification requires schools to develop sustainable projects in six categories: Teamwork and Leadership, Energy Conservation, Waste Minimization, School Ground Cleaning, Curriculum and Environmental Stewardship. Successful schools are then awarded bronze, silver, gold or platinum status, based on their ability to implement and maintain projects, according to a news release from the school.
“It is a huge accomplishment to receive Gold-Level status during the first year of certification,” says Elanor Waslander, Executive Director, Ontario EcoSchools. “St. Joseph-Scollard Hall has clearly demonstrated that the projects they are undertaking are sustainable, impactful and are generating a greater awareness of environmental issues in their school and community.”
Some projects already undertaken include:
- a school survey which found that a small change in the recycling containers significantly increased students’ desire to recycle,
- a biodegradable art display aimed at raising awareness and creating sustainable art alternatives, and
- a neighbourhood cleanup and a greenhouse gardening project.
The S.O.L.E. (S.J.S.H., Outdoor, Leadership, and Environmental Studies) Program, taught by Terry Dubroy, the Science Club, co-led by teacher Jackie Laberge and several staff members took a leadership role in the Ontario EcoSchool application process. Returning students will act as mentors to help maintain and build on current environmental programs during the next school year.
“We are delighted to have St. Joseph-Scollard Hall receive an Ecoschool certification,” says Derek Belanger, Principal. “The greenhouse alone is a great symbol for our school community, illustrating the hard work of our staff and students and their commitment to environmental leadership."
