Climate Action Days

Waste - November 19, 2024

On Tuesday, November 19th, each grade did Climate Action activities.  As a school, we were mindful of the composting and food that was served in the cafeteria.  In addition, students and staff were asked to bring in their own reusable water bottle, and for students that brought in lunch from home to consider reducing the use of single-use plastics.  The next Climate Action Day is February 5, 2025.  The theme will be 'Energy'. 

PS 166 Climate Action Days 2024-2025

  

Climate Action Days Goals

  • Teaching solutions: There are countless ways to take climate action. Every school can show students they can have a positive impact on the world around them.
  • Celebrating victories: Many school communities already take climate action. This is a chance to show what solutions already exist in our schools.
  • Centering justice: As part of every theme, students can learn about environmental justice.
  • Empowering students: Students are encouraged to advocate for activities that matter to them. They can help lead Climate Action Days!
  • Working together as a community: Schools can include families in Climate Action Day activities. Schools can also work with community-based organizations.

https://www.schools.nyc.gov/school-life/space-and-facilities/sustainability/climate-action-days

PS + YOU From Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos

 
 

Newsletter banner shows students engaging in climate-related activities.

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It’s Time to Conserve Water

Dear Families and Colleagues,

This autumn, amid record-low amounts of rainfall, we are feeling the effects of climate change right here in New York City. Earlier this month, a fire broke out in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park, fueled by the dry conditions. And with our upstate reservoirs and other water sources far below where they should be at this time of year, we are officially under a drought warning. As a city, it’s time to take steps to conserve water. 

Every single one of us—from students to staff to families—can play a role in protecting our water supply. Here are a few tips and tricks from the NYC Department of Environmental Protection for conserving water in our schools and communities:

  • Shorten your shower! Taking five minutes off your shower saves 25-35 gallons.
  • Turn off the faucet when brushing your teeth and washing dishes.
  • Only run a washing machine or dishwasher when full.
  • Tell a teacher or family member if you see a water leak.
  • Call 311 to report an open or leaking hydrant.

For additional water-saving tips, I encourage you to visit the Department of Environmental Protection’s website. You can also learn more about NYCPS’ sustainability efforts here. To our educators: check out the Sustainability Hub for climate education resources and classroom activities.

I’m proud that our schools are already taking action to support the environment and mitigate the effects of climate change, from citywide composting to our Climate Action Days. But there is always more we can do. With 1,600 schools and over one million students and staff, our NYCPS community has the opportunity—and, I’d argue, the obligation—to make a real difference as we tackle this challenge across our city. I encourage each of us to do our part to conserve water.

 

In partnership,

 

Melissa Aviles-Ramos

Chancellor