Englefeld School is one of the Canadian schools that has been recognized by the organization EcoSchools for leading the way in environmental action in 2024.
A release from EcoSchools says that the organization has partnered with over 5,000 schools to cultivate student leaders, foster environmental education, and support climate action. Schools earn certification by creating an EcoTeam (environmental club) and taking action to reduce energy and waste, plant trees and gardens, and run sustainable transportation initiatives.
EcoSchools Canada’s national program recently arrived in Saskatchewan and, alongside established partners SaskOutdoors and Environment and Climate Change Canada, they reached over 4,000 students and 6 schools became certified this year. These collaborations aim to enhance environmental education, community engagement, and sustainable practices throughout Saskatchewan.
“It has been an exceptional experience to share the EcoSchools Canada platform and programming with schools in Saskatchewan this year,” said Chantelle Edwards, climate education program officer with SaskOutdoors. “This is our very first year celebrating certifications. SaskOutdoors strives to provide professional learning opportunities and meaningful contact with nature. This partnership with EcoSchools is a great fit! Watching schools engage in environmental action and outdoor learning, collaborate between classrooms and make a noticeable impact in their communities is truly inspiring”.
Englefeld School’s effort in creating a unique natural environment playscape and outdoor classroom is a big part of the recognition. The concept combines a loose parts playground, an edible crop area, and a terraformed outdoor classroom that serves as a natural play area for young imaginations.
Englefeld School teacher Merrissa Karmark has been a driving force behind the initiative. She has been involved in design, curriculum attachment, fundraising and largely overseeing the project. The community and local businesses and industries have pitched in throughout the project with cash, materials and in-kind donations.
Among the unique features of the play and learning space is an edible forest garden which will provide outlets for Practical and Applied Arts and Horticulture curricula. A water feature will house native plants, perfect for biology and horticulture studies. A sand play area will lead up to a terraced amphitheatre that can be used as an outdoor classroom or performance area.
Also included in this year’s named schools was Bulyea School, also in the Horizon School Division. Other recognized schools in the province were Chief Little Pine School, Paynton; Lawson Heights, Saskatoon; Ecole College Park, Saskatoon; and Buena Vista School, Saskatoon.