Education Programs

Presentations, Event Exhibits, and More

ECDRR is more than happy to work with classes, clubs, and groups of all ages. Topics can vary and be customized to the audience and their preferences, but must be determined at least two weeks prior to the scheduled date. Presentation topics have included general waste diversion (safe disposal, recycling, waste sorts, etc.), composting/vermicomposting & food waste, county recovery programs, and economics of recycling. We have given presentations to local library groups, schools, Rotary clubs and municipalities, but we are always open to new audiences! 

Typically for presentations we try to work with teachers or leaders to find a topic that aligns with the current curriculum, theme, or focus. For example, if there is a science unit about decomposers going on in a classroom at or around the scheduled presentation date, we might pick food waste as a topic and then do an activity with vermicomposting. **Hint for schools: Many presentations can be counted as a Green School activity (see below)!**

Some general program concepts are outlined below, but we can customize and develop topics as needed or requested - please feel free to ask! 

Topic/Title	Ages	Duration	Description
Recycling Book Reading and Bookmark-Making Activity	K-4	Approximately 1 hour	The focus of this program is on recycling & waste reduction, by offering a related reading and a recycled bookmark making activity. The books available for this activity include the “Save the Planet!” series by Federica Fabbian. Reinforcing the books’ educational message is a recycled bookmark-making activity with supplies collected from local recycling centers for participants to create their own bookmark to take home.  ~ A great way to celebrate America Recycles Day (11/15/2022)! ~
Intro To Worm Composting Presentation and Information Session	All Ages!	Approximately 1 hour	This program is intended for adults and families. This program roots in food waste awareness efforts. The program covers the basic science behind the process of vermicomposting, demonstrate an active worm bin, and teaches participants how to create their own bin at home, troubleshoot/solve basic worm bin challenges, and offer the opportunity for questions/discussion.

If you are interested in having an ECDRR staff member do a presentation, have an event booth, or simply be a guest speaker, please email our program assistant or fill out and submit the Educator Request Form: Educator Request Form

Green Schools Program

The Michigan Green Schools Program is a statewide program dedicated to teaching environmental stewardship to K-12 students. Students, parents, and school staff work together to complete a minimum of ten activities from the Michigan Green School application form. There are three different levels that require a specified number of activities: Green School (10 activities), Emerald School (15 activities), and Evergreen School (20 activities). Activities categories include recycling, energy, environmental protection, and miscellaneous. Some activities that schools have done in the past include creating a paper recycling program, establishing a school wide eco-reading program, and creating environmental art projects out of recycled materials. Applications are due annually in March and can be submitted to our program assistant.

All official Green Schools in Eaton County receive a certification signed by the governor, patch, flag, and rights to use the Michigan Green Schools logo on school media. ECDRR staff are also more than happy to attend any related award celebrations and promote all recognized Eaton County Green Schools. 

Does your school want to become a Green School? For more activity examples and where to find resources check out our Green School toolkit and program flyer. Please contact our program assistant for more information and for activity support. 

2019-2020 Eaton County Green School Award Recipient:

Maplewood School - Vermontville, MI