Fourth grade students at Edison School recently hosted a Science and Sustainability Symposium to present their civic science research on food waste and environmental sustainability. Held on May 22, the event marked the culmination of a semester-long inquiry project supported by the Children’s Environmental Literacy Foundation (CELF) and Hilltop Hanover Farm and Environmental Center.

As part of their project, students visited a local farm, surveyed their peers, investigated the environmental impact of food systems, and conducted a food waste audit in the school cafeteria. Their findings highlighted meaningful opportunities for reducing waste and improving sustainability practices within the school community. The student-led symposium welcomed district administrators, food service staff, members of the Port Chester Sustainability Committee, and families.

In addition to the school-based event, the fourth graders had the honor of presenting at the Mercy University Science Symposium, where they shared their research with more than 100 attendees—among them educators, industry leaders, and students from seven different school districts. Not only did they present their own work, but they also learned from fellow students spanning elementary through high school.

The students' ability to tackle real-world challenges and confidently present their findings to a broad audience speaks to the power of student voice in sustainability education, as well as Edison School’s commitment to experiential learning, civic engagement, and environmental stewardship.

Date Added: 6/2/2025