Acmetonia's environmental program expands to neighboring schools

Acmetonia Elementary School is expanding its environmental program beyond its walls. The school recently held its sixth annual Ecostudent Challenge, where students learned about ecology, oceans, and local rivers. One student, ten-year-old Maverick Gniewkowski, was surprised to discover that Pennsylvania has 86,000 miles of rivers and streams. During the Challenge, fourth-grade students studied 100 questions related to environmental topics and found sponsors to support them financially for every correct answer. Teacher Elizabeth Newill notes that this project encourages students to make a difference for the environment. Over the past six years, the program has raised more than $35,000 for various organizations, including the National Aviary and the Audubon Society. The program has also attracted interest from other schools, including those as far away as Ohio. David McCutcheon, a teacher at Hampton Central Elementary, highlighted the excitement among students. Last year, 80 Hampton students participated and raised about $2,000, demonstrating that kids can have a positive impact in their communities. On April 16, Acmetonia will hold an assembly featuring organizations like the American Forest Foundation and the National Aviary. The event aims to build awareness about environmental issues and the importance of wildlife. The program has also included visits from professionals like Jason Bittle, a National Geographic writer. The Ecostudent Challenge is seen as a successful way to engage young students in environmental issues while fostering their ability to take action through fundraising. Newill is optimistic about the program's future and its potential to create lifelong learners who care for their environment.