The Goleman Gator Recycling Program has been revived after nearly two years of being out of commission. The revival was a combined effort of the Science National Honor Society (SNHS) and Key Club. Between both groups, each taking half of the school, they are responsible for collecting recyclables from around the school on Wednesdays after class.
Each classroom has a designated recycling bin and teachers are asked to put the bins outside their door on Wednesdays for pick up by the students. Announcements and reminders are sent out periodically to keep the program running.
Science teacher, Fred Matter, believes the recycling program enriches the students’ scope of learning.
“It certainly raises awareness about issues facing the planet but more importantly it allows them to do something to help the situation,” said Matter. “Many times the high school students are aware of so many problems facing society and the planet and feel hopeless. This allows them to be a part of the solution and hopefully instill lifelong practices to help protect the planet.”
In addition to recycling, the SNHS is organizing a student wide science tutoring program and members are maintaining the plant area near the front of the school. Key Club has joined in the maintenance for this school year.
“We are looking to expand the native plant area and rear plants to continue replacing exotics on school grounds and possibly expand to homeowners in the community,” said Matter. “If successful this could make corridors for butterflies and native birds that depend on those plants for food.”