R Chris introduced Ann Falla, teacher at ENSS since 2001 and mentor for the Environmental Club. Ann is originally from Kitchener, she went to University in Ottawa, Guelph and London. She has two daughters.
She teaches science and coaches student sports. Ann and the Environmental Club has taken over the Threads program initiatives now that Martha has retired.
The Environmental Club is one of the few clubs that have been allowed to continue during the pandemic.
Ann showed us the ENSS Environmental Club logo - Blue and Gold make Green.
She appreciates the close connection between the school and the community. Particularly the partnerships between the school and service clubs. Ann maintains the trophy case including the Rotary awards.
She acknowledged the significant events over the past couple decades like the upgrade to the track and field at ENSS and the huge community support. Also the extra curricular things at the school.
The Environmental Club has the 'Clique Boutique' providing small gifts and gently used clothing and jewelry for students. This is from the former 'Threads' program. They used a PD day November 10th to ask students and staff to clean out their closets and donate. Their grand opening was December 1. About 200 students and staff came through and 1,000 items were taken. All things that were diverted from the waste stream. They provided snacks to students.
A second initiative is Green Merchandise. They purchase 'green' items in bulk and sell at a small profit as a fund raiser.
3. They organize school yard clean up day.
4. Bulletin Board Blitz. Students research environmental topics and then prepare displays for the bulletin board in the hall.
5. Electronic Waste Recycling. Presently only within the school but they are looking to expand to the community.
6. Weekly Quiz and random draw. Students set up quiz for Monday and those who submit answers a winner is drawn on Friday.
7. Environmental Science Projects. ENSS students have had a lot of success at Regional and National events and some have presented globally.
8. Canada Student Vote. Members organized student vote in last federal election. They particularly researched the environmental platforms of the parties.
Ann was thankful for the support of Rotary.