If your school does not have a recycling program in place, here are some basic steps you can take to get one started: http://teachersfl.wordpress.com/2013/05/22/how-to-start-a-grassroots-school-recycling-program/

The FL Department of Environmental Protection encourages Floridians to help conserve the state’s freshwater sources. Florida residents are encouraged to participate in Water Reuse Week by implementing these tips on saving and reusing water at home, starting this week:

1. Turn off the tap when not in use. Regularly check taps and pipes for leaks and repair any leaks detected. 2. Never pour water away when there may be another use for it. 3. Washing machine rinse water, especially the last few batches of rinse water can be used for toilet flushing and floor cleaning. 4. Reuse water from washing of fruits and vegetables, and dish/cup washing final rinse water to water plants. 5. Install water-efficient taps and showerheads to cut water usage. 6. Take shorter showers and turn off the shower while lathering and washing your hair. 7. Use a tumbler of water to rinse your mouth instead of leaving the tap running while you brush your teeth. 8. Use a pail of water to wash your car rather than a hose. 9. Rinse dishes in a plugged sink rather than under running water. 10. Do not use running water to defrost frozen food.

The 2012-2013 Florida Green School Awards Program application period is NOW OPEN! We encourage all students, faculty and administrators from K-12 schools (public or private) to participate in this statewide award program. The information provided on the application, should reflect achievements from the 2012-2013 school year (7/1/12 – 6/30/13). NOMINATION DEADLINE: June 7 for Projects  (students, teachers and class) and Schools and July 12 for School Districts.

To find more information about this statewide program, please visit: Florida Green School Awards Program

PROJECTS (students, teachers and class), please APPLY HERE

SCHOOLS and SCHOOL DISTRICTS, please APPLY HERE

Today, the US-ED GRS program honored two Florida Schools among sixty-four schools nationwide and one Florida District among 14 districts was honored the first-ever District Sustainability Award, for reducing environmental impact and costs; improving student and staff health; and promoting Environmental Education and Sustainability.

The 2013 FL-GRS honorees are:

• Driftwood Middle School (Public), Hollywood, FL

• St. Paul Lutheran School (Private), Lakeland, FL

• School District of Palm Beach County, FL