A student-led initiative to enhance environmental awareness is gaining momentum in the Eau Claire Area School District, as discussions about composting programs take center stage at the recent Board of Education meeting. A senior from North High School expressed enthusiasm for the district's efforts to implement composting in high schools, highlighting the potential for students to learn responsible waste management practices.

The student noted that the current "Husky time," a 30-minute daily session, could be an ideal platform for educating peers about proper waste disposal. "We have a big trash problem during lunch," the student remarked, emphasizing the need for better waste sorting. The proposed composting initiative aims to address this issue by encouraging students to dispose of their food waste correctly.

District officials shared that the composting program began in elementary schools, with the goal of instilling these habits early. As students progress through the grades, they will carry these practices into middle and high school, creating a culture of sustainability. "By the time those individuals move on to high school, they will do it out of habit," an official stated, reinforcing the long-term vision of reducing landfill waste.

The Board's commitment to expanding composting efforts reflects a broader strategy to promote environmental stewardship among students. As the district moves forward, the anticipated outcomes include not only a cleaner school environment but also a generation of environmentally conscious citizens.