Published: May 02, 2008 11:56 am            

Willing to try

So, you don’t think one person can change the world? Ten fifth graders at Sangre Ridge Elementary School will say you’re wrong.

OK, OK, technically, there are 10 students, not one, who worked to eliminate foam trays from the lunch room but the point is still valid: they wanted to make a difference and they have made a difference. They just had to put their minds to it.

The students have been studying environmental issues in enrichment class and thought there were better alternatives to the foam (commonly called Styrofoam) trays used in the cafeteria. The 10 divided the work, became familiar with the science during the tray’s entire life cycle and then made their presentation to school authorities.

Hoping just to get an audience, the students were beyond thrilled when Sangre Ridge eliminated all foam from the school. And though the paper replacements for the foam trays leave something to be desired, the students and the school are considering other options for next year.

Often, people who make a difference are those who are just too annoying to ignore. While the students don’t fall in this category, they do have one thing in common: the willingness to try.

        

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