Meadow Crest receives Green Schools award
Published 1:31 pm Thursday, February 25, 2016
The Meadow Crest Early Learning Center was one of six schools recognized this week by King County as a “Sustainable Green School 2015-16” as part of the county’s Green Schools Program.
The Green Schools Program involves students and school employees in learning about and practicing resource conservation. Participating schools and school districts have reported saving money through reduced garbage volumes and decreased energy and water use.
“King County Green Schools Program directly supports our goal of increasing the County’s recycling rate from 54 percent to 70 percent by 2020,” Pat McLaughlin, director of the King County Solid Waste Division said in a press release.
There are 230 schools currently participating in the program, up from 100 schools in 2009.
“This month we are recognizing six schools for their Green School achievements,” said Dale Alekel, Green Schools Program manager. “Participating schools are initiating or improving sustainable practices and are teaching students and employees about conservation.”
Meadow Crest was labeled a “Level One King County Green School” because of its waste reduction and recycling practices.
“We’re excited that our schools continue to receive recognition for operating at lower costs and in a manner that in environmentally friendly,” District Spokesman Randy Matheson said in an email. “These are values that we are teaching children in our schools; so, it’s important that we act accordingly.”
According to the press release, Meadow Crest achieved a recycling rate of 64 percent. The lead custodian taught staff about waste reduction and recycling practices and teachers worked with students on sorting garbage, recyclable and compostable materials.
The school purchased compostable products, including cereal bowls, fruit cups and serving boats, and collected food scraps along with compostable serving-ware. Milk waste was reduced by using half-gallon containers and serving milk upon request in small cups.
The Maywood Elementary School and Endeavor Middle School, both in the Issaquah School District, were two other area schools that were also honored.
