\ Education News & Notes “Green Roofs” Help Students Make The Grade (NAPSA)—From starting school-wide recycling plans to cleaning up area parks, today’s students get high marks whenit comesto helping the environment. Now a new program may help their grades go throughtheroof. The initiative teaches students in grades 6 to 8 about green roofs—a roof that replaces traditional roofing with a living envi- ronmentof plants andsoil. Among the benefits they offer, green roofs remove pollutants from storm water and reduce the amount of water that flows into sewer systems. The plants also store excess carbon from the atmosphere, lower radiant heat in the summer and create habitats for local wildlife. Additionally, green roofs provide extra insula- tion to buildings and last two or three times longer than traditional roofs. The program, called The Roof Is Growing!, is run by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). It provides a lesson plan, workbook and an online interactive program designed to engage students on how green roofs cool cities, clean the air, create habitats and con- trol storm water. Funded by a grant from the National Endowmentfor the Arts, the initiative is meant to inspire young students to think creatively and use their imaginations as future landscape architects or on any path they choose. A new program teaches students about the environmental benefits of a “green roof.” Of course, there are ways by which parents can get kids thinking green at home,too. Try thesetips: MakeIt Fun Let your child decorate the recycling bins you have at home as you explain to her what items can and can’t be recycled. You might even arrange for you and your child to tour the area recycling facility. Take A Walk Take your child for a walk in the woods to help him gain a greater appreciation of nature. If he has a favorite animal or habi- tat (deserts, jungles, etc.), encourage him to learn more at the library, at school and online. Lead By Example Be sure to recycle and take steps to protect the environment on your own. Setting a good example at homecan help build Earth-friendly habits in kids that last a lifetime. For more information, visit www.asla.org/greenroof.
