Help me give my students a vermicomposter (worm compost) to study and practice waste reduction, and to learn about decomposition and its importance to the environment.
My students are curious learners, constantly asking questions, digging deeper, and trying to understand the world around them. They seek meaning rather than just comprehension and are willing to do the work to get there. As an Environmentally focused school, my students are also always on the lookout for better ways to keep our planet and ourselves healthier.
These are kids who care.
They care about the world around them and how their actions impact more than just themselves. When an answer isn't simple or straightforward, we learn how to use science in order to gather information and make positive changes for our school, community, and the environment.
My Project
Vermicomposting, or composting with the help of worms, is not just a practical method of turning food waste into useful fertilizer, it is also a living, breathing ecosystem--one that can be kept in the classroom where it can be easily observed on a daily basis by diligent student-scientists. Each grade level will have access to, and help maintain the on-campus vermicomposters, and with next-generation science standards as a backbone for learning, students will have the opportunity to explore a variety of subjects through the lens of waste reduction, including math (measuring and weighing worm castings, food waste input), science (worm biology, food chains, ecosystems, decomposition), reading (research, observation journals), social studies (history of compost, use throughout the world, effects on waste management), etc.
By bringing composting into our classrooms, students will have an active and hands-on role in eliminating school food waste and have real-world applications for their STEM learning.
The vermicomposters chosen for this project are also designed specifically for ease of use, which is perfect for our school where students are encouraged to take the lead in projects, fostering not only independence and problem-solving skills, but also allowing for increased ownership of the project. Not only that, but since worms are like people and have specific needs and requirements in order to stay healthy, the "worm factory 360" creates an ideal environment for worms to thrive.
We are so excited to incorporate another aspect of environmental awareness and stewardship into our school, and look forward to worms enriching both our soil and our students' academics!
More than half of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. Stephanie and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
