For the first time ever, all Rockdale County schools are participating in The Clean Air Campaign’s Clean Air School program.

Last year, more than 300 schools in 38 districts implemented Pool to School, Ride the Bus! For Clean Air and No-Idling programs to educate students, parents, teachers and staff about the things they can do to improve air quality on school grounds and in the community.

This year, to further spark student involvement, that Clean Air Schools program is including additional tools and resources for students who want to take the lead on campus. The kickoff included representatives from most schools in the county as well as students participating in various “Green Clubs” throughout the county. There was also a performance by the General Ray Davis choir, presentation from Brandon Clark from The Clean Air Campaign as well as student presentations.

“Student involvement is paramount to the success of our programs,” said Gretchen Gigley, director of education for The Clean Air Campaign. “Having students engaged on air quality and transportation projects not only fosters a deeper educational experience and reinforces core student skills, but it also builds momentum for future community involvement. With more tools available this year, we are excited to see how Georgia students use them to effect change.”

For students ages 13-18 interested in air quality, The Clean Air Campaign developed OnAir, an online platform that rewards actions taken to reduce air pollution with points—or “AirCreds”—allowing students to compete with other users and see their accumulated impact over time. The site also includes a blog featuring regular posts by Georgia students.
Georgia schools or parents interested in joining the Clean Air Schools program can visit CleanAirCampaign.org/Schools.