Sustainability
“Nature has this beautiful arrangement in which everybody, while striving for his own life and happiness, does something for the improvement and conservation of the environment.”
-Maria Montessori, Citizen of the World, p. 21
This year, Montessori Academy took part in TVA’s Uplift program. Thanks in part to this program, sustainability isn’t a single project or a once-a-year theme for us. Instead, it’s a daily practice. Each day, our students take an active role in our conservation efforts, developing habits and understandings that empower them to care for the world around them.
Students learn about tree rings in our outdoor classroom.
Outdoor education is integral to our approach. Students spend extended periods of time outdoors, exploring, playing, and learning directly from nature. Whether planting seeds in our gardens, observing habitats, or creating mini greenhouses using recycled materials, children build a deep connection with the environment. These experiences cultivate respect, curiosity, and a genuine desire to protect nature.
We also emphasize protecting natural resources by being intentional about how we use materials. Classrooms try to minimize consumption, use reusable materials and recycle. These practices are not treated as chores, but as opportunities for students to make choices and see the impact of their choices.
One of the ways this comes to life is through our composting program. Students participate in sorting food scraps and learning how waste can be transformed into something beneficial for the earth. This hands-on experience not only reduces what we send to landfills but also helps children understand the natural cycle of decomposition.
A student uses compost spinner
Student-created signage
Compost helps our garden grow
Student leadership also plays an important role in our sustainability efforts. Every classroom has designated “Energy Champions.” These are students who take on the responsibility of helping the community stay mindful of energy use. These students created checklists to remind the community to turn off lights, conserve water, and minimize unnecessary waste. This system fosters collaboration and a sense of ownership across the campus.
This year, we celebrated our efforts with our “Green Team” celebration on St. Patrick’s Day. This event brought teachers and students together to reflect on what we accomplished and to set goals for the future. We wore green, enjoyed green snacks, and shared about our contributions to energy conservation and sustainability.
Past, Present, and Future of our “Green Team”
Sustainability is more than just a lesson or curricular checkbox. By engaging students daily, empowering them as leaders, and involving our entire community, we hope to nurture a generation that understands the importance of caring for and protecting our planet.