What is the Power of R?
The Power of R program includes teacher resource kits, as well as a variety of classroom workshops that are designed to be either stand-alone or presented as a part of the Inquiry Units. The information and delivery formats of the program are continually re-worked to engage different learning styles and stay current with emerging issues.
The Power of R workshops encourage students to consider their everyday choices and how they have an impact on our world.
Both the Curriculum Packages/Kits and the presentations are available to schools in Districts 71, 72 and 84 free of charge.
Classroom Presentations - Power of R Sessions
- Where Does it Go? (Grades K-5):
An interactive presentation where students discover exactly where their garbage goes and learn practical ways to become excellent environmental stewards. (approximately 1 hour) - Holiday Specific: Waste-Free Holidays (Grades K–5 | Available Sept–Dec):
Support your students in planning a Waste-Free holiday season with their families. This session explores where waste ends up, offers creative ideas to reduce environmental footprints during the Holiday season, and includes fun takeaway materials. (approximately 1 hour) - Soil Stewards Composting (Grades 2–5 | Available April–June):
Students dive into the science and importance of composting. Participating classrooms receive all the necessary materials to plant seeds for a hands-on science experiment. - Audit Your Waste (Grades 4–12):
In our most popular and impactful activity, students conduct a real-time classroom waste audit. This hands-on experience challenges them to think differently about what they throw away. (approximately 1 hour with pre-presentation prep) - Audit Your Waste (Grades 4–12):
Take a behind-the-scenes tour of our Regional Landfill Facility. To maximize the experience, a CSWM Educator will visit your classroom for a preparatory pre-field trip session.
"We have now gone down to only one garbage can and have a 'green team' responsible for washing out plastic containers so they can be recycled!"
- Amanda Davidge - Teacher at Queneesh Elementary School
- Introduction to the Circular Economy (Grades 6–12):
Introduce your students to the value of a circular versus a linear economy. This session highlights why mindful consumption can be even more impactful than traditional waste management. - Community Mentorship & Waste Diversion Projects (Grades 6–12):
Connect your students with a CSWM Educator for professional mentorship on waste diversion initiatives. We provide research and planning support, making this a perfect fit for environment clubs, leadership classes, or students working on environmental Capstone projects.
- Reducing Food Waste (Grades 8–12 Foods Classes):
A customized session tailored to your culinary curriculum. This program features an interactive presentation followed by a hands-on session where students create a low-waste snack together. - Cook, Eat, and Learn: Waste-Free Lunches (School Families | Evening Event):
Bring your school community together for an interactive family night. Hosted by a CSWM Educator, families will complete a mini waste audit, learn tips for packing Waste-Free lunches, and finish with a fun cooking class to make delicious lunchbox treats.
"I can't thank you enough. Your lessons were fabulous, and you were such a great instructor. This was so perfect for our school inquiry. Thanks for being such a big part of it! I hope to work with you more next year."
- Myra Wilson - Teacher at Airport Elementary School
Connect With Us
Contact Environmental Educator Tina Willard-Stepan to discuss your needs, and to book your spot.