Sustainable Jersey for Schools and the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) announced that the Highland Park Middle School has been awarded a Sustainable Jersey for Schools capacity-building grant. The $2,000 grant is intended to assist the school green team as they lead and coordinate sustainability activities.
“In educating the whole child, we strive to create a better, more patient, alert and focused world. We are excited to incorporate mindfulness practices through independent teacher practice and professional development and our teachers look forward to infusing yoga into their everyday classes, making all involved more mindful” said middle school principal Jennifer Osemwegie.
With this contribution NJEA has provided $1 million to support a sustainable future for children across the state through the Sustainable Jersey for Schools program. “Every day in the news we hear more and more about the importance of recycling and creating eco- friendly products, as well as the value of using sustainable resources,” said NJEA Vice President Sean M. Spiller. “Our job as educators is to prepare the next generation with the skills, information, and resources to become engaged citizens and leaders in our efforts to save and protect our planet. NJEA is honored to continue to work with Sustainable Jersey on this important program that directs resources into our schools.” In addition to the grant funding, NJEA supports Sustainable Jersey for Schools as a program underwriter.
“Our State’s students and teachers continue to inspire me with their passion for sustainability and commitment to New Jersey’s future,” said Sustainable Jersey Executive Director Randall Solomon. “We are proud to support their efforts with grant money to help realize their vision.” Proposals were judged by an independent Blue-Ribbon Selection Committee. The Sustainable Jersey for Schools grants are intended to help school districts and schools make progress toward a sustainable future in general, and specifically toward Sustainable Jersey for Schools certification.
Editor’s note: Randall Solomon is publisher of the Highland Park Planet