Edilmari Longo Vega, Ministry Lead of Marianist Encounters at Colegio San José, PR, sends us the school's recent achievements and upcoming plans for the present academic year.
Colegio San José recent achievements:
Decreasing Single-Use Plastics: In line with our commitment to sustainability, our school has removed single-use water bottles and sodas from the cafeteria.
Green Flag Award: After seven years of dedicated work toward achieving the Green Flag award from the Eco-Schools Program, we are thrilled to have finally earned this recognition. Organización Pro Ambiente Sustentable (OPAS), the nonprofit responsible for the award, is in the process of coordinating the ceremony. We will share photos as soon as we receive the flag.
International Coastal Cleanup Day: On September 21, our students participated in the International Coastal Cleanup Day, continuing our tradition of engaging in this meaningful event each year.
Garden Project: Our students revitalized the school garden by painting the recycled planters, adding a fresh and vibrant touch to the space.
Volunteering at Centro Buen Pastor's Garden: On October 19, Members of the National Honor Society and Prof. José Balseiro contributed to Centro Buen Pastor by cleaning and revitalizing its garden, as well as assisting with planting new greenery.
Volunteering at La Fondita de Jesús: On November 9, 19 tenth graders, accompanied by their class moderator, Prof. Luz Domínguez, volunteered with La Fondita de Jesús, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the homeless by providing food and clothing.
Upcoming plans for the school year
Tutoring Program Collaboration: We are working on a collaboration with the Municipality of San Juan to provide tutoring services for underserved students in Río Piedras. Our goal is to implement this program next semester.
Reusable Bottle Initiative: We are exploring the feasibility of making reusable bottles a mandatory part of school policy. I am currently collaborating with the accounting office to evaluate cost-effective options for students.
Grade-Level Green Service Projects: Starting this year, we plan to introduce a green service activity for each grade as part of their annual service requirements. Additionally, we aim to identify ecological organizations where senior students can fulfill their 40 required service hours.
Volunteering at Buen Pastor's Garden and La Fondita de Jesús; Students revitalizing Colegio San José school garden.
🏅A lot going on! Thanks for sharing! Keep up the good work!