In a vibrant meeting room filled with the energy of young advocates, two students from Prince George's County, Olivia Thomas and Noah Agbene, presented a compelling case against the use of plastic bags in schools during the Board of Education Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP) Ad Hoc Committee Meeting on April 23, 2025. Their inquiry, sparked by the daily breakfast routine at Kenmore Middle School, questioned the necessity of plastic bags used to contain cereal packages, especially when the cereal is already enclosed.

The students highlighted that their concern aligns with two critical goals of the CCAP: committing to sustainable materials management and leading by example to foster transformational change. They noted that while plastic bags are intended to simplify meal distribution, their use seemed redundant and environmentally unfriendly, particularly in a county that has made strides in reducing plastic waste.

During their presentation, the students shared insights from discussions with food service leaders, including Mary Kirkland from Food and Nutrition Services. Kirkland explained that the use of plastic bags is tied to state programs like Maryland Meals for Achievement (MMFA) and the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), which aim to ensure that students receive balanced meals. However, the students raised questions about whether these practices could be adapted to reduce plastic waste, especially in schools where students do not eat in classrooms.

The meeting revealed a significant gap in communication and understanding regarding the use of plastic bags across different schools. Kirkland acknowledged the need for further investigation into the practices at various schools and the potential for reducing plastic bag usage where it is deemed unnecessary.

As the discussion unfolded, committee members expressed admiration for the students' research and passion. They recognized the importance of engaging young voices in environmental discussions and the potential for student-led initiatives to influence policy changes. The committee is now tasked with exploring the feasibility of eliminating plastic bags in schools, particularly those that do not require them for breakfast service.

The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration among committee members and school leaders to develop effective strategies for reducing plastic waste in the school system. As the students left the room, their determination to advocate for a more sustainable future resonated, leaving a lasting impression on the committee and a hopeful outlook for the county's environmental initiatives.