Ridge Elementary is Awarded $1,000 Green Grant

The Ridge Elementary School PTA today’s award for a $1,000 Green Grant for their application in the Recycling Category.  We continue to award thirty grants throughout Virginia, announcing one each day in June.

The Ridge Elementary PTA supports Ridge Elementary in Henrico County, Virginia.  Ridge is a diverse school where the student population represents over 30 countries and over 20 languages are spoken.

The school and PTA saw a need for water bottle refill stations at Ridge Elementary.  Newer schools are now built with this type of water station, but Ridge was built in the 1920’s and has not had a renovation since the 1970’s.  The filling stations will be used by both students and staff, and would discourage the use of single-use plastic bottles of water.  Furthermore, the new water stations will be the only filtered water in the school, which is safer and healthier for all.

Funds awarded by Keep Virginia Beautiful would be used to cover most of the expense of purchasing two water refill stations. The PTA will be able to supplement the remainder, and County facilities and maintenance would install the stations at no additional cost.

The expectation is that the filling station will increase water consumption because it will make water more accessible, and a novelty for students to fill their own reusable bottles.  Drinking more water is part of the school’s Wellness Plan.  Ridge Elementary will also save money by eliminating the purchase of bottled water at faculty and staff meetings.

Carrying your own water bottle to refill at school saves money for families too!  Congratulations Ridge, you’re teaching your students good habits that are healthy for the kids and the environment!