ERHS is taking a big step toward becoming environmentally friendly this year, with students and teachers taking part in activities that can officially certify ERHS as a green school.

In order to receive this certification, “Teachers have to do professional development… and we have to create a presentation to the board showing them,” says Mrs. Jessica Stern. “It usually takes at least two years, but it may take our school only one since we are fast tracking.”

Many teachers have already agreed to incorporate environmental issues into their curriculums.

Junior Civitan, the school’s club dedicated to recycling, is growing in popularity. Students can earn valuable service hours by helping collect recyclables on Fridays after school. Club sponsor Ms. Kathleen Deery mentioned that ERHS generates about two dumpsters of recyclable items every week.

She also described the students as “very enthusiastic,” adding that “they see how much paper and plastic… is being used.”

Freshman and member of Junior Civitan Daanye Scott admired that ERHS has a recycling club. “Recycling is important because it helps sustain the planet for future generations,” Scott said.

Another contribution to ERHS’s journey to be green has been the addition of a Victory Garden. U.S. History Teacher Mr. Julian Lord, along with other staff members and ROTC students have been maintaining a garden on school grounds for over a month.

“I think it’s great!” said Senior Kaisa Nichols-Russell on ERHS helping the environment. “I want to be involved.”

Student involvement is strongly encouraged by Mrs. Stern, who is starting an Environmental Club. “I want to get students with similar views about the environment to join and come together,” she says. The first meeting will be held this Thursday in Temp 8.