River View recycling program has school community "onboard"
River View Elementary School students now have more options for recycling in their classrooms and in the lunchroom.
River View art teacher Joanne Borzym launched the school's "All Aboard" recycling program after the students returned from winter break. The students previously recycled paper products, but Borzym felt they could do more to help the Earth.
Now the students recycle paper, plastic and aluminum products, including recyclable items from their classroom snacks.
With the help of the Student Council members, Borzym supplied each teacher with an animal-shaped reusable bag to collect all plastic recyclables from the classrooms, and a poster to hang outside of the classroom doors. Students from each class then collect and dispose of the recyclables.
In addition, Borzym made rainforest-themed recycling bins for the lunchroom, which she placed under a large palm tree to catch the students' attention and generate enthusiasm for the program.
"It took a little while for everyone to understand how the new program runs," Borzym said. "I needed to make sure everyone was onboard, otherwise the program wouldn't work."
Borzym has coordinated the recycling program with the school's Character Counts program that teaches traits like respect, responsibility and caring.
The new recycling program has students at River View very excited about their efforts.
"I think it's a really good program because the stuff we used to throw away is now being reused and can help save the planet," River View fourth grade student Joseph Northrup said.
"It shows little people can help out and make the world a better place for others to live," River View fifth grade student Chase DeWitt said.
It's really a snowball effect, River View fifth grade student Nyomi Garcia said.
"Once you start, others will catch on," River View fourth grade student Jessica Homan added.
"We are excited that the kids are realizing their actions can make a positive impact on the environment," Borzym said.