Beverly schools promote composting and food waste reduction initiatives

The Beverly Public Schools School Committee meeting held on March 10, 2025, focused on several key initiatives aimed at improving sustainability and health within the district. A significant highlight was the ongoing efforts to reduce food waste in schools, including the introduction of share tables and composting programs at Beverly High School and Beverly Middle School. The district has partnered with Simple Pack to transition to fully compostable packaging, utilizing BPI certified materials that are biodegradable and free from harmful PFAS chemicals.

During the meeting, members discussed the upcoming Food Waste Prevention Week scheduled for April 7-13, which aims to educate students on minimizing food waste. A proposal was made to conduct a waste audit across all schools to identify further composting opportunities, reflecting a commitment to environmental education and civic engagement among students.

The committee also reviewed several policies, including those related to tobacco use on school premises and the district's wellness program. While the tobacco policy was noted for potential updates to address new legal products, the committee decided to maintain the current language for the wellness program and other policies after thorough review.

Additionally, the meeting announced the formation of a new Health and Safety Committee, which will include teachers, parents, and administrators. This committee aims to address health and safety concerns within the district and will hold its first meeting on March 26.

The next School Committee meeting is scheduled for April 9, where further updates on educational initiatives, including English Language Arts implementations, will be presented. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, reflecting a collaborative and proactive approach to addressing the needs of the Beverly school community.