Queens Kids Protect the Environment
Through St. John’s Federally Funded Summer Program
August 04, 2010
Students from five Queens public middle schools are making their
neighborhoods cleaner this summer through a federally funded St.
John’s University initiative that transforms the youngsters into
leaders who serve their communities by protecting the
environment.
St. John’s won a competitive, $90,000 “Learn and Serve America”
grant to create the program as part of a federal effort that helps
young Americans build academic and leadership skills through
service-learning. Focusing on education and service, St. John’s
two-month program guides students in developing and executing their
own
sustainability projects.
The students turned the Queens campus
into a giant classroom for two days in July. Taught and mentored by
St. John’s students and professors, specially trained middle-school
teachers and environmental experts, the children studied recycling,
nutrition, leadership and service. They also learned about
composting at the campus
“organic garden.”
“These young men and women are absolutely wonderful — highly
motivated and concerned about the environment,” said
Richard Sinatra, Ph.D., Professor and Associate Dean of
Academic Affairs in The School of Education. Dr. Sinatra developed
the program through St. John’s Vincentian
Institute for Social Action (VISA). His Co-Director is
Michael Donhost, Ed.D., Assistant Professor in The School of
Education.
Read the
complete release