Summit Christian Academy, a K-12 school located in Cedar Park, is realizing its vision of graduating empowered leaders through innovative environmental projects led by students. Teacher Melissa Tapperson’s Environmental Studies class focuses on addressing global issues such as climate change, water security, and pollution.
“Our world today has many problems, including climate change, water security, loss of animal habitat, ocean acidification, pollution, the disconnect between humans and the natural world, and growing consumerism, among many others,” Ms. Tapperson stated. “Our vision is that our school community sees those problems as opportunities to innovate, change, and problem solve instead of hopelessness and apathy.”
In this class, eleventh and twelfth-grade students collaborate on designing campus improvements aimed at sustainability. The projects begin with a “dream walk,” where students envision potential changes. Historically funded by small amounts from the school budget, these initiatives received a significant boost when Ms. Tapperson discovered the Bright Green Future Grants program.
“At the beginning of the year, we talked about how the Earth was created and what it would look like if we stewarded it in a sustainable way. The Bright Green Future Grants program allowed them to make their dreams specific and attainable,” she explained.
During the 2023-24 school year, Summit secured two grants for student-led projects: an outdoor classroom and rain barrels for garden irrigation. This marked their first application for such grants.
“Me and my friends, we’re always inside, and we always want to go outside, but our teachers always tell us no,” said Savannah, a rising twelfth grader involved in advocating for the green classroom. “We’re always in the classroom… I think if we’re outside… it lets us clear our minds.”
The outdoor classroom was designed with local contractor assistance at cost and includes benches, a stage for theatre practice, and a green roof. Inspired by this project’s success, Savannah contributed large wood logs to create an additional space for lunch or leisure activities.
Joaquin worked on securing funding for rain barrels to enhance garden irrigation efficiency. “I was hoping we could get more water for the plants because the hose can only reach so far.” He expressed excitement about installing larger-than-expected rain barrels over summer break.
Ms. Tapperson emphasized that these initiatives extend beyond her class: “The Bright Green Future Grant is a really great way to engage students, teachers, and the community towards a more sustainable future… They have inspired our students to dream more… create solutions… impact the world around them.”
