You know what they say: one man’s trash is another man’s treasure! Middle schoolers are taking this old sentiment literally, making it their mission to collect 1,000 pounds of plastic over the course of a year as part of the NextTrex recycling challenge.

This student-led initiative was jumpstarted by Ms. Brust’s and Ms. Segner’s 6th grade service learning classes. All of the plastic collected will be used by NexTrex to create eco-friendly outdoor products. If students reach their goal, they’ll not only help keep all that plastic out of landfills, but will win a bench made out of recycled material to proudly display at the school.

While 1,000 pounds may seem like a lofty goal, students are already well on their way. As of the latest collection on January 8, less than two months in, they have already collected 222 pounds!

Students leading the charge are dedicated to the cause, and their commitment is evident in the effort they are putting in. Some even visited the Big Lake Lions at their December meeting to present all about their project. The Lions have been participating in the same challenge since September and have almost reached their goal. Because they could see how much passion the students were showing, they announced they would donate their bench to BLMS once they finish.

It is so awesome to see our young student leaders take so much initiative and show so much commitment to a cause they believe in. We can’t wait to see where it leads!

Have plastic to contribute?

Community members are welcome and encouraged to participate! There is a bin in the BLMS office where recycled plastics can be dropped off. Please note that the challenge only accepts certain plastics:

• Grocery bags
• Bread bags
• Bubble wrap
• Dry cleaning bags
• Newspaper sleeves
• Ziploc bags
• Plastic shipping envelopes
• Cereal bags
• Case overwrap
• Salt bags
• Pallet wrap/stretch film
• Produce bags.

Your contribution will not only help students reach their goal, but also will help the environment by recycling and saving lives of animals, plants, and humans. Thank you for your participation!