King County Executive Dow Constantine will present Bothell’s Secondary Academy for Success (SAS) and others with Earth Heroes at Schools awards April 29 at the Maplewood Greens Golf Course Banquet Room in Renton.
Since 2006, SAS students have been involved with the school’s recycling program, as well as service projects at 21 Acres, an agricultural and environmental learning center in Woodinville. The successful recycling program tripled the amount of recyclable materials previously collected. For their offsite service projects at 21 Acres, students participate in activities such as trail and pond maintenance, organic gardening and clearing weeds without the use of toxic substances. These outdoor service activities encourage students to take on leadership roles, increase their knowledge of environmental issues and build awareness of their ecological footprint on both a local and global level.
“While these winners of the Earth Heroes at Schools award represent different segments of the school community, they all share a passion for the environment and for taking a hands-on approach to improving the world around us,” Constantine said. “I look forward to recognizing their achievements.”
This year the program recognizes a record number of Earth Heroes: seven teachers, a Brownie troop, a student, three custodians, a parent and eight schools.
Their accomplishments include increasing recycling and decreasing garbage by collecting lunchroom food scraps for composting; replacing polystyrene plates and cups with durable ware; leading student “green teams” in environmental projects; and reducing energy consumption.
“Motivated by a desire to preserve our environment, these local heroes have made contributions with long-lasting benefits that go beyond the schoolroom,” Constantine said. “King County is fortunate to have so many outstanding environmental stewards among us.”
Many of the winners also participate in the King County Green Schools Program to take specific actions to conserve natural resources and reduce waste.
