Students inspire next generation of environmental stewards

Reworld, a leader in sustainable waste management solutions, recently partnered with the Town of Hempstead to recognize students from schools across the borough for their creativity and commitment to environmental awareness during its annual Earth Day poster contest.

This long-running initiative has been running for over 30 years and invites students in grades 1-8 to explore sustainability issues through art, encouraging young people to think critically about recycling, energy conservation, and protecting natural resources in their communities.

“This contest is a powerful reminder that even the youngest members of our community have a voice in shaping a more sustainable future,” said Town of Hempstead Supervisor John R. Ferretti. “His ideas, expressed through art, highlight the importance of protecting our environment and serve as an inspiration to us all.”

The contest remains a staple Earth Day tradition in this Long Island borough, demonstrating how environmental education can manifest beyond the classroom.

Students presented original works of art that captured a wide range of ideas, from waste reduction to wildlife protection, demonstrating how these messages resonate with today’s youth in meaningful and personal ways.

The proposals were evaluated in two categories: grades 1 to 4 and grades 5 to 8.

– In the category of grades 1 to 4Alice Rogulski, of the James A. Dever School, took first place. Jasleen Kaur, from Polk Street School, took second place, and Findlay O’Bryon, also from Polk Street School, took third place.

– In the category of grades 5 to 8Ashley Lopez Chavez of Caroline G. Atkinson Intermediate School took first place, followed by Arlyn Euceda of Polk Street School in second place and Andy Tined of James A. Dever School in third. Honorable mentions were awarded to Sehajpreet Kaur of Howell Road School and Aidan Rizzotti of Oceanside School #5.

“It is incredibly rewarding to see how deeply and thoughtfully these students approach environmental issues at such a young age,” said Maureen Early, Senior Community Relations Specialist at Reworld.

«Each year, their artwork reflects their creativity and a genuine understanding of why sustainability is important. Supporting programs like this – that help bring our communities together and inspire the next generation to care for the world around them – is what makes Reworld truly proud.”

Top winners received Barnes & Noble Nook devices and gift cards; Likewise, the schools of the first place winners were awarded gift cards to support the continuity of learning and creativity in the classroom.

This recognition constitutes a shared commitment between the Town of Hempstead and Reworld to invest in educational opportunities that encourage environmental responsibility from an early age.

Reworld continues to support various community and environmental programs throughout Long Island that promote sustainability, education and ecological awareness, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to driving positive change both locally and globally. For more information about their community initiatives, visit www.reworldwaste.com.

Inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards