C3 is now a member of the Environmental Education Association of Illinois. As a result, this issue will be dedicated to the very special work of C3′s Student Clubs. Not familiar with C3′s after school conservation program? We are please to introduce you to our network of 84 Chicago Public Schools and over 1500 8th-12th grade public school students who are leading environmental education projects in their schools and communities.
Training the Next Generation of Environmental Leaders
C3 provides training, curriculum and support to CPS teachers who then train their students to lead hands-on conservation projects. We truly value the dedication of teachers that choose to be involved in our program and we demonstrate this by offering teachers a stipend and professional development credit (CPDU’S) for their participation.
Students participating in C3 clubs receive hand-on experience in environmental stewardship, vermicomposting, outdoor composting, water conservation, anti-idling campaigns and weatherization to name a few. This experience prepares students to lead workshops for fellow students and community members
Students in C3 clubs are involved in all sorts of exciting conservation projects.
The C3 club at Pulaski Academy recently organized a “Family Eco-Night” where C3 students and leaders organized conservation workshops for parents. Over 55 families attended the event and one lucky family went home with a rain barrel. Earlier in the year, this club distributed close 500 weatherization kits to the community.
The C3 club at Waters Elementary uses their film and video resource lab to make educational videos about environmental issues that often encourage students to take action.
Toothbrush
Is there a C3 Club at your child’s school? Tips on how to get started!
First: Find an interested teacher. You could contact the school directly or get in touch with the Local School Council. Talk to your neighbors and build support for environmental education at your local school.
Second: Teachers must attend to an upcoming C3 orientation. Please encourage teachers to contact us immediately to sign up at conservation@cityofchicago.org or 312-743-9230
Third: Encourage your child and their friends to participate in a unique after-school program where they learn how worms transform food scraps into soil and how to encourage bus drivers to reduce idling.
