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Sustainability

Student in woods on campus

Community School's guiding principle #6 states: "The School should make a child aware of . . . his/her place in that environment, and his/her responsibility in global issues."

Joe Mohr planting tree on campus

Community School promotes a heightened awareness of ecologically responsible behavior. Sustainability is a schoolwide initiative and relates to both the school’s mission statement and our original Guiding Principles. From a young age students learn to take care of their bodies, the environment in which they live, and the earth. Community School’s private elementary school campus in Ladue lends itself to the exploration of nature. The students experience the grounds daily throughout the curriculum, developing a deeper appreciation and respect for their roles as responsible citizens.

The goals for sustainability are age appropriate, child friendly, and inclusive of families. Some of our recent initiatives include:

  • the removal of invasive species such as honeysuckle and euonymus
  • planting native trees and shrubs
  • caring for and maintaining an organic garden and greenhouse
  • composting our food waste
  • making natural cleaners and weed killers
  • building animal homes for campus
  • increasing the number of recycling bins
  • recycling milk cartons at lunch 
  • increasing oxygen levels in our pond by planting water hyacinth and water lettuce
  • capturing and using rainwater to water our greenhouse and garden 
  • meatless Mondays
  • LED lighting upgrades
  • formation of Student Sustainability Committee