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Big Picture Students Lead Way in Civic Science Cohort

five students sit in chairs presenting on a virtual call on a laptop

Kenmore Junior/Senior High School students in the Big Picture program stepped onto the global stage! This school year, students joined the Children’s Environmental Literacy Foundation (CELF) "Civic Science: Inquiry to Action" program. This program empowers them to identify real challenges in our own community, collect data, and develop solutions that make a difference.

Students recently participated in an international virtual symposium. They didn't just share their ideas with their classmates; they presented alongside peers from New York, Maryland, Texas, and Nigeria.

"It was an incredible opportunity for our Big Picture cohort to hear global perspectives and realize that their local actions have a worldwide impact," said Mary Beth Flatau.

Thanks to their hard work and innovative thinking, Big Picture students were awarded a $4,000 grant to bring three "microgrant" projects to life. Here is a look at what their student-led teams are working on right now:

  • The Water Quality Mural: This team is blending art and science by creating a community mural that highlights local water quality issues.
  • Electronics Recycling Initiative: Focused on reducing the harmful effects of e-waste, this group is organizing a community-wide effort to recycle old gadgets responsibly.
  • Sustainable Styling: Taking a hands-on approach to textile waste, these students are building clothing racks from sustainably sourced materials to support our school-based clothing exchange program, The Boutique.

The Civic Science model is all about student-driven inquiry. These projects were chosen by the students based on their own interests and the needs they see in the Ken-Ton community. We are so proud of our Gr. 10 students for turning their curiosity into tangible civic action!