Lake Riviera Middle School Earns Sustainability Honor

BRICK, NJ — Lake Riviera Middle School has achieved the bronze-level certification from Sustainable Jersey for Schools.

The middle school was one of more than 160 schools that were honored in August, the organization said.

Lake Riviera received 155 points for its efforts, documented in the school's application. Those efforts include the school's aquaponics gardening system.

Students in science classes learn about "being able to grow vegetables all year round ... (seeing) the root systems and learn how the system is feeding the plants, instead of soil."

Students learned how to dry herbs and extend their shelf-life; how to "change and enhance the flavor of foods using produce grown in our school and locally and its effects on our environment."

Student learned how to measure pH, nitrates, ammonia and water quality, the "scientific principles of plants" and civic responsibility. "It is our hope that students learn the ease of growing healthy vegetables in their backyard and help themselves and the environment, at the same time," the district said.

Also noted in the application is the school's "Breakfast After the Bell" program, which has been in place since 2012, ensuring students start the day with breakfast during homeroom so students do not miss instructional classroom time. "The breakfast menu that is served to each classroom consists of a minimum of five different reduce calorie/carbohydrate breakfast items as well as assorted fruits and milk," the school said.

Also highlighted was the school's water bottle filling stations that allow students to refill water bottles especially for gym class, and the use of recycled materials in the school's arts classes and arts club.

The Sustainable Jersey for Schools certification is a voluntary program. Schools submit documentation to show they have completed a balanced portfolio of the program’s sustainability actions; bronze certification requires a minimum of 150 points. Silver-level certification requires a minimum of 350 points.

“I commend the teachers, administrators, staff, parents and students for their commitment and vision for the future. Becoming certified with Sustainable Jersey for Schools is a significant achievement,” said Randall Solomon, executive director of Sustainable Jersey. “Certified schools play a crucial role in reducing environmental impacts, improving health and preparing students for the challenges they will face in the future."

The Sustainable Jersey for Schools certification is good for three program years.