Windsor Forks Elementary School earns environmental Honorable Mention

Students and staff at Windsor Forks Elementary School really know how to clean up. They have been practicing the three Rs this year by reusing, reducing and recycling and it has paid off with provincial recognition.

Their efforts were acknowledged recently at the annual Mobius Environmental Awards luncheon April 16 in Halifax, where the school earned an Honorable Mention for outstanding contributions and accomplishments in waste diversion from RRFB Nova Scotia. “Windsor Forks District School’s students at all grade levels don’t just learn about waste diversion; they practice it,” said RRFB representative Rob MacIntosh. The school’s ‘recycling team’ includes 10 students, a teacher supervisor, and the school custodian, he said. “Every day, two members of the recycling team and the school custodian make waste management a well-run priority in every room of the school.”

At Windsor Forks District School, traditional efforts are combined with creative ideas: recyclable cups and bowls are used for the hot lunch program; ‘waste-diversion’ fundraisers are planned; and 20 tires have been diverted from landfills for use in forts, obstacle courses and as portable soccer posts. “Our students and staff participate in school-wide reusing, reducing and recycling,” said acting principal Tina Mumford-Kehoe. Every classroom and worksite at the school utilizes labeled waste bins, she said.

As well, a group of students volunteer to sort, collect and rinse recyclable containers before collection, among many other environmentally friendly activities.

Lindsey Wilson and Austin Shaw-O'Leary, Grade 6 students at Windsor Forks School, were chosen to attend the awards because of their consistent dedication to the Recycling Team. “These boys have been active on the team for several years and demonstrate leadership within our school,” Mumford-Kehoe said.

The Mobius Environmental Awards recognize the achievements of innovative Nova Scotians that have helped make the province a leader in waste diversion. Minister of Tourism Bill Dooks presented the awards in conjunction with the Canadian Waste-Resource Symposium.