our stories: learning about conservation

The Greening of RJA

by Debbie Granick, parent

It’s 9 a.m. My eight-year old and her friend stare intently at the computer, creating a power point presentation titled “HTE – Help the Earth – A New Magazine!” It’s Sunday. They could be watching TV!

But, no! They’re students at RJA where caring for the earth is as much a part of the curriculum as multiplication and grammar.

“Judaism teaches us that we are God’s partners in creation,” says Cheryl Maayan, head of school. “We have instructions from thousands of years ago that guide us to safeguard the earth and show kindness to animals.”

In the classroom, students study Jewish texts about the environment, learn about global warming in science class and use technology to research energy efficiency. They participate in field study that takes them to restore the prairie or to “green buildings” to learn about conservation.

The students are vigilant environmentalists. They turn off classroom lights and use both sides of paper. They use recycled materials in art class and study the workings of low energy light bulbs in science. They put un-eaten fruits and vegetables into the school compost and think daily about the impact of their actions on the world around them.

Parents reinforce classroom lessons with environmental initiatives of their own. PATIO, the school’s parent organization, has arranged for students to use cloth napkins and washable plates and utensils in the lunchroom. Recycling containers are in each classroom and office.

“When I read about eco-friendly schools, I find myself saying, ‘We already do that!’ to every idea presented,” says Cheryl. “Conservation is the very fabric of our school. It’s who we are.”