GreenStar Schools

“How-To” Guide

Complete the following steps to get certified.

Step 1. Perform a Baseline Assessment: Complete a baseline assessment. Note: data from a previous assessment / audit from a non-profit or government agency can be used to fill out the Green Star Schools Assessment.

Step 2. Create an Action Plan to obtain GSS certification: Students with the guidance of a teacher or advisor, will then prepare an Action Plan to reduce waste using the Waste Reduction and Recycling Assessment result.

The Action Plan will:

• Identify barriers to make improvements and propose solutions
• State how students will “Take Action”
• State the students’ responsibilities related to waste reduction and recycling in the classroom

Step 3. Complete the Action Project(s) identified in your Action Plan (must do at least one): Students take action to reduce waste by completing one or more Action Projects. Note: Action Project(s) previously accomplished by your classroom/students can be used toward this requirement for certification.

Step 4. Do a Follow-up Assessment and Report on the actions taken by your class to conserve resources and reduce C02e: After completing the action project(s) identified in your Action Plan, complete the Follow-up Assessment and Report. This will help us calculate the positive environmental impacts of the students’ action(s).

Step 5: Celebrate and Share your project(s): Recognize and celebrate the environmental actions the students have taken. Share your story with the Green Star Schools Program by signing up your classroom and reporting your success on the GSS website.

Relevant Curriculum Topics

Topic 1. Provide an introduction to environmental topics and principles

Topic 2. Conduct a classroom/school Environmental Assessment

Topic 3. Take action in the classroom

Topic 4. Reach out beyond the classroom

Topic 5. Measure the impact of the actions. Evaluation, reflect and celebrate.