TSO works with 2-5 classes in already existing subject area classes in each school. Work is on a weekly basis for either an entire semester or school year, depending on the nature of the school's schedule, the specific course, and the wishes of the school administration, staff and students. Teachers are selected by the school to work with TSO staff.

TSO Workshops: Half day ($250) to full day ($400) training for teachers and/or students in how to involve students in environmental improvement projects.

TSO in Action

A sampling of projects:

Tree Planting: To help kickoff the City's Million Trees weekend, on October 23rd 64 8th graders planted 491 native trees and shrubs including pin oak, white oak, sweet gum, silver maple, red maple, and red cedar along the Bronx River, in Bronx park's North Forest. The students, coming from the Immaculate Conception School in the South Bronx and their sister school, St. Elizabeth's in NJ, also tested river water for dissolved oxygen and pH. The planting will help to prevent erosion, create habitat and preserve water quality.

Prior to the planting, TSO staff has been in two 8th grade classes at Immaculate Conception to engage students in learning about water bodies in NYC, the Bronx River, human impact on water, water testing and coastal restoration activities. This activity was funded by NOAA/Wildlife Conservation Society Bronx River grants program. GrowNYC staff work with the Bronx River Alliance Education program on this project. Click Here to view photos from the day.

Drinking water: 4,650 native trees and shrubs and thousands of willows have been planted in shoreline areas along streams tributary to New York Citys upstate reservoirs to prevent run-off and preserve water quality.

Improving the Neighborhood Environment: Environmental conditions that impact public safety and quality of life such as leaking fire hydrants, clogged catch basins, noisy subways, exposed street lamp wiring and other hazardous conditions have been reported to the appropriate agencies. Students stay on top of the problem seeing it through from report to repair.

Global Warming/Alternative Energy: Within a context of learning about climate change, students construct working solar ovens and passive solar house models, sharing them with peers and classmates to demonstrate alternatives to fossil fuel energy. Lighting conservation is also a focus.