(NAPSA)—From recycling to riding bikes, students across the country are finding ways to help protect the Earth. Now a new program helps them take that activism a step further, while also teaching them the value of teamwork, community involvement and responsibility. It challenges teams of two to three middle school students to identify an environmental issue in their community, research the issue using scientific investigation and create a replicable green solution using Web-based tools and resources. Examples of projects include reducing the amount of toxic runoff entering a community’s water, building awareness of the need to reduce mercury consumption, and creating a program that encourages people to change their driving habits in Earth-friendly ways. Called the Siemens We Can Change the World Challenge, the program—whichis aligned to education standards—is meant to empowerstudents to be agents of change in their communities. It wascreated by the Siemens Foundation, the National Science Teachers Association and Discovery Education, which providesscientifically proven, standardsbased digital media resources and professional development to classrooms nationwide. Getting Involved Students in 6th through 8th grades, under the mentorship of a teacher or adult supervisor, can register at www.wecanchange.com. This middle school launch Are you upfor the challenge? CT) TAeatehcee) A new challenge encourages middle school students to create green solutions for their communities. marks the first phase of the nationwide initiative, which will roll out to K-12 in following years. All student teams completing the Middle School Challenge will receive prizes for their participation. Top-performing teams, as judged by a panel of environmental experts and science educators, will earn cash, teacher education materials and unique “Discovery Experience”trips. The grand prize-winning team will receive a prize package that includes an appearance on Planet Green, Discovery’s 24/7 ecolifestyle network and a trip accompanied by a Discovery TV personality. For more information, visit www.wecanchange.com.
