Elwood has recently been selected to pilot a new school recycling program as a part of the Suffolk Share Initiative, in partnership with the County Executive’s Office.

Each classroom throughout the district will receive two containers to aid in recycling efforts—one for paper, one for plastic. Receptacles will also be placed in cafeterias to assist in recycling food-related waste. Larger bins will be placed strategically throughout buildings so that smaller receptacles can be transferred. These receptacles will arrive to each school during the month of May.

In addition to providing the receptacles, Suffolk County will also share a voluntary curriculum, written by a panel of local educators, to support the program for teachers to consider. Other tools, such as a large commercial scale, will also be supplied by the county so that students can measure the impact their efforts will have.

This program comes to Elwood at no cost to the district, inclusive of the carting fees and all materials. The district is fortunate to have been selected to pilot a program that is intended to become county-wide when funding is expanded.

“I am pleased to be able to announce this initiative just prior to the celebration of Earth Day,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth Bossert. “We feel this program will help to develop lifelong habits in our students and staff to contribute positively to the community and environment.