Bodwell High School, a community of 40 distinct nationalities, is a proponent of environmental stewardship and leadership.
Part of our attraction is the school's view on conservation and preservation. Bodwell's Green Team, mentored by Bianca Ferrajohn, is an example of how environmental stewardship can be directly linked to tangible learning outcomes.
Eduardo Matzumiya, Bodwell's minister of the environment, echoes many of the students' passion and involvement stating, "Any single one of you can make a difference even if it is just by putting a bottle in the right bin."
Inspired by many local business and community groups, Bodwell High School has implemented a Zero Waste program and a permanent recycling station in our cafeteria and staff lounge. There are plans to establish a similar system in our dormitory facilities. Above the normal classroom separation of garbage, paper and beverage container bins, our communal recycling stations sort Styrofoam, soft plastic and hard plastic containers too.
Another studentled initiative includes a school garden seeded, cared for, and harvested by students. The students hope to sell their produce at the Lonsdale farmers market next year in hopes of supporting local environmental initiatives.
The restoration of Mackay Creek is our Green Team's most ambitious project. Close to the heart of the Bodwell community, the team has worked alongside the Evergreen organization, Streamkeepers, BCIT students and members of various First Nations groups.
Students preserve bat habitats, release salmon fry and remove invasive species while planting native species. We hope to continue these efforts to maintain the pristine North Shore environment. Special thanks to the North Shore community for teaching our students how local efforts can contribute globally.
This piece was originally published in the North Shore News print edition as part of a special Private Schools advertising feature. The content was written and submitted by North Shore private schools.
