Graded Celebrates Earth Week with Sustainability Initiatives

Graded celebrated Earth Week from April 22–25 with an array of activities that engaged the entire community in eco-friendly initiatives.⁠
⁠
The week kicked off on Earth Day with a Recycled Art and Tech for Good Showcase. Grade 6 design technology students presented projects that addressed energy consumption. All were invited to join hands-on workshops to weave macramé plant holders, paint glass jars, and craft animal figures from recycled materials.⁠
⁠
Throughout the week, the community participated in initiatives promoting sustainability and environmental awareness. One highlight was the Graded Sustainability Tours, which gave parents, faculty, and staff a behind-the-scenes look at the school’s green practices, such as solar heating, water reuse, and composting. The Green Club hosted a planting activity, with students taking home seeds in recycled containers. The community also embraced eco-friendly transportation by carpooling, walking, or riding the bus to school, earning special stickers for their efforts.⁠
 

⁠Competitions and ongoing initiatives further encouraged sustainable habits. The Food Waste Reduction Challenge saw faculty and staff emerge as the champions, wasting just 4.64% of their food. High school placed second (9.13%), middle school came in third (9.65%), and lower school finished fourth (10.71%), with an overall school average of 8.53%—within the "normal" range.⁠
⁠
Throughout the week, the community contributed to an Electronic Waste Recycling Drive, enjoyed sustainable lunch options, and learned more about environmental stewardship through educational displays in the libraries. Lower and middle school students also learned about PANCs (non-conventional food plants) and participated in planting herbs, lettuce, and vegetables. The produce is expected to be used in future Graded lunches.⁠