School News

Earth Day in Middle School

The energy intensified as the 6th–8th graders gathered in the outdoor classroom by the spring house to listen to Middle School science teacher Lucas Kelly’s opening remarks for the Earth Day celebrations. They were shocked when Lucas shared the staggering statistic that, historically, studies have shown that people spend approximately 90-95% of their time indoors. Lucas teamed up with Spanish Teacher Coleman Rose to design a day full of earth-friendly workshop options that students could choose from. To prove to students how easy it is to appreciate how we use the earth and can take care of it, all activities were easily accessible, and most were performed right here on campus.

Students discovered there are many ways to take action on behalf of the earth. In Making Music with Envirodrum, middle schoolers learned to repurpose common household items into instruments. The ensemble included a duo who clanged together two trash cans lids, while others shook plastic soda bottles filled with dried corn, or beat on empty plastic water bottles. With practice, a full percussion band took shape, and right in time for their performance. Some students toured American University to see how the school promotes sustainable practices, and others visited Common Good City Farm to see sustainable urban agriculture in action. There were also opportunities for students to explore how dance, film, and social media can help transform a concern for the earth into action.

For those with the scientific or analytical mindset, there were workshops on Water Purification and Analyzing Lowell's Energy Use. In the Water Purification workshop, students layered paper towels, cotton balls, sand, and even rocks into plastic bottle tops. It was tough competition to see who could find the secret ingredient that filtered the clearest water from Rock Creek. Young analysts walked around with clipboards counting "phantom" or "vampire" appliances to compile data on Lowell's energy use. Middle schoolers were amazed at how many items passively use electricity as they counted pencil sharpeners, charging stations, projectors, and Apple TVs throughout the classrooms. After a thorough analysis, the students devised a plan for Lowell to cut its energy costs.

With outdoor options such as learning to fly cast and gardening, Lucas hoped to provide positive experiences that "deepen students' relationships with nature" and that ultimately "creates conservationists in the future." Rising student engagement in activities and clubs such as the Stream Team are proof that Lucas' hopes are being realized.

New partnerships with organizations provide much needed support and encouragement. For example, Trout Unlimited members presented a check for $400 to the Stream Team club for waders, which will help them stay dry when collecting trash from Rock Creek. While collecting trash, the Stream Keepers also collect data for the Rock Creek Conservancy. Students are transformed into "citizen scientists" assisting the conservancy in monitoring the health of the creek.

This year’s Middle School Earth Day celebrations offered something for everyone, thanks to Coleman and Lucas. The focus of the day was to show students everyday actions they can take to help protect our environment. Coupled with the new 6th grade climate change curriculum, middle schoolers are getting critical tools to protect precious natural resources for years to come.
 
Lowell School is a private PK-8th grade school located in NW Washington, DC. Our mission is to create an inclusive community of lifelong learners in which each individual is valued and respected.