‘Save Water Save Life’ looks at Niles Wellhead

Niles New Tech High School facilitators recently attended the New Tech Annual Conference with more than 1,500 educators from across the United States and Australia.

During the Conference, Matt Pagano and Courtney Dwyer, BioArt facilitators at Niles New Tech, were recognized for their work on the “Save Water Save Life” project.

Save Water Save Life, which focuses on freshwater conservation and human impact on the environment, was awarded runner-up in the best in network category. As a result, the project will be used by the New Tech network to train facilitators on how to develop similar projects.

“I am extremely honored for the recognition this project has received,” Pagano said. “But, I am especially proud of the school’s learners, as they made vital contributions to the project during the last school year.”

As part of the project, New Tech facilitators and learners worked with the Niles Wellhead Protection Committee and several other community partners to produce public service announcements (PSA). The learners worked in groups to create original artwork to raise awareness for the local wellhead and to emphasize the importance of freshwater conservation. Learners were able to gain experience using watercolor and creating high quality designs. The PSAs will be played at Wonderland Cinemas and placed along the river walk in Niles with links to podcasts the students created.

As part of the college readiness assessment (CRA) portion of the project, Niles New Tech learners wrote individual proposals to the City of Niles suggesting legislation. This portion of the project required learners to conduct research, develop opinions and present proposals at a City Council meeting.

“I was really excited to be able to present my proposal to the City Council,” said Kristin Hogue, Niles New Tech learner. “It was rewarding to hear positive feedback from the council members. After the presentation, we were even approached by someone from the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission applauding us for our approach and letting us know it was in line with the Michigan Health Department’s recommendations.”

Although the project was completed in the first semester of the 2013 school year, Niles New Tech plans to run a similar project again this year based on individual reflection and learner feedback. For a video about the project, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B5HTlrZ6QZY

For more information about Niles New Tech High School or to enroll your child, visit the school’s website or call (269) 683-6031.