Model Programs

School Waste Reduction Programs
Are you interested in promoting education about air, water, and toxic substances, and school waste reduction in California’s schools? CIWMB has had several generations of educational materials and model school waste reduction programs to offer at both districtwide and individual classroom levels. These success stories will inspire you.

Instructional Materials
One of CIWMB’s substantial efforts and well-known educational products was the adoption and adaptation of a stellar Ohio-based curriculum titled, Closing the Loop (CTL). An excellent resource for incorporating waste prevention, recycling, and composting concepts into the hands-on classroom experience. CTL was modified to align with California’s academic content standards. It was kept updated and current through 2000. The latest edition is available for download. Education and the Environment Initiative staff are developing over 150 curriculum units for grades K-12 in the areas of Science, History/Social Science, and English/Language Arts. It is an environment-based curriculum designed to teach students about their relationship with the environment and how humans interact with natural systems. Drafts are available for 30-day review and comment.

School Diversion and Environmental Education Law (DEEL)
In 2001, new legislation was passed which mandated a one-time grant program for school districts. Several years were spent creating and implementing two programs known as the School DEEL. The School DEEL generated many opportunities and partnerships with school districts throughout the state. Several noteworthy projects and products were outcomes of this several year effort which ended in Spring 2005.