Environmental Program Inspires Elementary School Students to Think Green

Change is Simple, Inc., an environmental nonprofit, is implementing its education programs in all Woburn elementary schools this year.

Every student in grades 3 through 5 will get four free environmental science lessons from the company, which is being sponsored by a grant from The Cummings Foundation.

Superintendent of Schools Mark Donovan and Joyce Vyriotes, the communications director from the Cummings Foundation, recently visited the Shamrock School to see Change Is Simple, Inc., working with a Grade 3 class.

 “It is impressive to see an entire classroom so engaged in one lesson at the same time,” said Donovan.

Principal Wayne Clark of the Shamrock School said, “With new Science standards just around the corner, these lessons founded in Common Core Math and the Next Generation Science Standards couldn’t have come at a better time.”

The Beverly nonprofit’s programs “focus on environmental science, sustainability, and school/community projects according to the grade level of the students,” according to Change is Simple.

“Programs focus on all aspects of the environment from habitats and endangered species to waste, water, and food systems. The Change is Simple lessons use these relevant topics to inspire and empower students to make behavioral changes that have real impacts on the planet,” said the nonprofit.

“We are excited to be working with the students and educators of Woburn and Beverly. This incredible grant from the Cummings Foundation will allow us to deliver vital environmental education to every third, fourth, and fifth grader in both communities over the next two years. It is our mission to use environmental education to inspire youth and entire communities to work toward positive environmental change; this support will create great momentum for such change to begin," said Lauren Belmonte, executive director at Change is Simple.

The idea is that everyone is responsible “to protect the integrity of our planet, and education is the most effective means of inspiring others to do so.”

“Change is Simple programs utilize hands-on activities, experiential learning, and align with Common Core curriculum standards.

“All lessons inspire passion and provide students with an understanding of how their actions affect their environment, their health, and the social fabric of their communities. Children have been proven catalysts for change; inspiring our youth will establish healthy habits early and create a more sustainable future for all,” according to Change is Simple.