Following the success of Newport Middle School’s program, Waldport Middle School has established its own “Green Team” this year, giving students hands-on experience with sustainability and community service while developing valuable life skills.

Building on Success

Social studies teacher Denis Parsons took on the project after learning about Newport’s thriving program. “I was absolutely interested. I thought it would be a big help to our community,” Parsons said. To prepare, he shadowed Newport Middle School’s Chris Martin to learn more about their successful approach.

Student-Driven Structure

The Green Team operates as an elective class capped at 25 students who are organized into specialized crews: garden, recycling, beautification, custodial, kitchen, promotional/media center, and support. Students rotate through different teams every two weeks, ensuring exposure to all aspects of the program.

“We get to help clean up the school to make it presentable to visitors. The whole school has gotten better at recycling because of the Green Team,” explained Liam Hood, an 8th grader who appreciates the satisfaction of seeing immediate results from their work.

Building Skills and Community

Participants regularly complete self-evaluations and set goals for the following two-week period. Each student also signs a behavioral agreement, reinforcing responsibility and commitment to the program.

Em Shepherd, an 8th grader who helped launch the initiative, appreciates the social aspect of the program. “We wanted a community crew that works hard. We work together and get everything done. We wanted students who were responsible and eager,” Shepherd said.

For new students, the Green Team provides an excellent opportunity to integrate into the school community. “I just moved here and wanted to help out. It has been a good way to get to know my classmates,” shared 8th grader Ash Fields.

The program has received support from local businesses, with Dahl Disposal donating recycling bins and equipment. The team uses money collected from recyclable cans to purchase t-shirts and additional equipment.

Skyler Schwenk summarizes the Green Team’s impact: “We get to make the school look better slowly but surely.”