The Small Changes, Big Impact project was organized into six areas: curriculum, communications, community partners, green team, family challenge, and festival. Curriculum was written for all grades (K-5). The newly developed curriculum was used in each grade; 4th grade throughout the entire year, and other grades in April and May. The 3rd grade curriculum focused on composting and organic gardening, culminated in a "planting day" in May, when each 3rd grade class planted a raised garden bed to create a school garden. Communications with parents focused on different themes such as living greener at home, toxicity in the home, disposal of hazardous waste, and green outdoor living. The Family Challenge teamed up with community partners to encourage families to shop locally. Numerous local businesses donated to and participated in the Environmental Festival. The Green Team, an after-school program of grade 3-5 students, met twice each month through May. The team produced a bottle cap art project by collecting non-recyclable plastic caps from all families and the completed art project now resides in the school office. The As part of the family Challenge, students were asked to complete up to 18 green activities with their family at home. Incentive awards were presented to students who completed and returned their Challenge cards. Over 25 organizations participated in the spring Festival, including Hennepin County. The Intermediate School hosted its first STEM Fair on this day and student projects were on display during the Festival. The STEM Fair theme was Small Changes, Big Impact, adopted from the project.

Click here to learn more about the activities of the Small Changes Big Impact project.