ATLAS Elementary School teacher Therese Palmisano; Principal Jennifer Duston and teacher Sara Viscarra accepting the award.
In celebration of Earth Day, the City of Ventura has announced that Buena High School and ATLAS Elementary School have been named winners of this year’s Green School Awards. The recipients are recognized for their outstanding programs in sustainability and efforts to prepare the next generation of environmental leaders. The winners received an honorary certificate and a $500 cash prize sponsored by the City of Ventura, Agromin Premium Soil Products and E. J. Harrison & Sons, Inc.
“The annual Green School Award is an opportunity to celebrate students and staff who are improving and protecting natural resources through innovative projects. This year’s winners continue to be environmental leaders in our community” said Brandon Kaysen, Environmental Sustainability Supervisor.
Buena High School was presented the Environmental Leadership Award for reducing their environmental footprint and enhancing health and wellness opportunities for students. The school is in the process of renovating an abandoned garden to include fruit trees, vegetable planters, and space for native plant propagation. The new landscape will include rainwater capture features and a water efficient drip irrigation system. The school plans to use the renovated space to reduce food waste through composting.
ATLAS Elementary School was presented with the Watershed Hero Award from Ventura Water for implementing a water wise garden on campus. The garden conserves water, supports pollinators such as birds and bees and provides a beautiful space for students to engage with nature. This project was a collaboration between students, parents and volunteers from local Cub Scout Troops. “Our model of leadership at ATLAS empowers students to be the catalyst for the change they want to see in the world”, stated Sara Bergman Viscarra, teacher at ATLAS Elementary School.
For more than ten years, the City of Ventura Green School Award has supported environmental initiatives at local schools. Public and private schools are encouraged to apply for the annual award on the City’s website.
