Small Cape Breton school gets kudos for big environmental efforts

Located in Cape Breton, the Donkin School has recently garnered national recognition for its outstanding environmental initiatives. The school stands out as the only educational institution in Nova Scotia to receive eco-certification at the platinum level from EcoSchools Canada, a reputable non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainability in communities.

With a student population of approximately 130 ranging from pre-primary to Grade 8, the Donkin School has implemented a variety of eco-friendly programs and projects. These include community cleanups, energy conservation days, and other initiatives aimed at raising environmental awareness among students.

Grade 8 student Lukas Burke shared, “We participated in a ‘lights off’ day and had a sweater day to conserve energy by lowering the heat.” The school also boasts a thriving community garden on its premises, where students have planted a diverse range of produce such as tomatoes, strawberries, carrots, and fruit trees like plum, apple, and peach.

Moreover, the school actively participated in the Great Gulp event to mark World Water Day, emphasizing the importance of clean water access. Students were encouraged to drink tap water from reusable bottles and share photos as part of the competition. Additionally, the Donkin School organized a Grandmother Moon ceremony led by a Mi’kmaw elder to bless the water and educate students on its significance.

Brittney Melnick, the school’s math and science teacher, expressed her pride in the school’s environmental efforts and the prestigious eco-certification. She stated, “It’s a culmination of hard work and dedication towards a cause we deeply care about. We look forward to exploring new avenues to further our eco-friendly practices.”

As the Donkin School continues its sustainability journey, Melnick and the entire school community are excited about the future prospects and opportunities that lie ahead.