Grades of Green recently had the privilege of partnering with an inspiring group of 7th and 8th grade students at South Junior High School in the Anaheim Union High School District. Together, we launched a dynamic Green Team and waste diversion program that is already making a meaningful impact on campus culture.
With the guidance of our CCAC Environmental Outreach Fellow, Analisa Cassidy, 20 dedicated student leaders stepped into the role of environmental changemakers. Through weekly meetings, students explored key sustainability topics such as energy, water, waste, and environmental justice, connecting these global issues to their own daily lives and experiences.
Turning Knowledge Into Action
A cornerstone of the program was the implementation of a waste diversion system on campus. Students conducted waste audits to measure their impact and sort materials by hand into recycling, compost, and landfill streams. These initial audits established a baseline to track progress over time.
To make the system engaging and accessible, students designed and color-coded waste bins, transforming them into eye-catching educational tools. They also created posters and led peer-to-peer education efforts during lunch, helping the broader student body learn proper waste sorting practices. By taking ownership of the program, the Green Team became ambassadors of sustainability across campus.
Building Habits and Community
Beyond reducing waste, the program aimed to cultivate long-term habits and a strong foundation for environmental responsibility. As the weeks progressed, students began to see the power of collaboration: building friendships, strengthening teamwork skills, and connecting with peers who share a passion for protecting the planet.
These experiences are more than extracurricular. They’re shaping future leaders. Students are gaining confidence, discovering potential career paths in sustainability, and recognizing their ability to create change.
A Transformative Experience
By the end of the program, it was clear that engaging students in sustainability at a young age is critical. These 20 students now have a deeper understanding of their environmental impact and the tools to address real-world challenges like climate change.
Reflecting on the experience, Analisa shared:
“The most rewarding part of this program was meeting students who are so excited to be in the green space. They all love the environment for different reasons and have been incredibly dedicated to showing up each week to learn and take action. I’ve built meaningful relationships with them, and I hope they pursue careers in sustainability one day.”
She also noted how eye-opening the experience was for students:
“Many of them were shocked by what they learned, especially during waste audits. They couldn’t believe how much packaged food was being thrown away. It even sparked friendly competitions to see who could sort waste the best!”
Bring a Green Team to Your School
Inspired by South Junior High’s success? You can empower students at your school to become environmental leaders, too.
Grades of Green offers hands-on programs, resources, and support to help schools implement impactful sustainability initiatives like waste diversion, energy conservation, and student-led Green Teams.
Interested in bringing a program like this to your campus? Reach out to us! We’d love to partner with you and help your students lead the way toward a greener future.
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