Powered by Purpose: Algonquin Road Public School students collect used batteries

Students from Algonquin Road Public School are discovering how small actions can have a big impact on the environment.

Through the school’s Eco Cubs program, students in Grades 1 to 3 explore environmental issues and take part in hands-on activities that encourage sustainable practices at school, at home and in the community.

Most recently, the Cubs launched a used battery recycling drive inspired by Grade 2 student and Eco Cubs member Deeliah Shlemkevich who started a used battery collection in her very own neighbourhood.

“I wanted to help the environment because it’s not good to put batteries in the garbage,” said Deeliah Shlemkevich. “I put drop-off bins near the mailboxes around my house for people to bring their old batteries. Some people left kind notes too. I was happy that my plan worked!”

Upon seeing how Deeliah’s idea encouraged her neighbours to recycle their own batteries, the Eco Cubs were energized to build on her efforts with a school-wide collection.

“Helping students understand how waste can affect our soil, air and water is a component of the Grade 2 and 3 science curriculum,” said teacher Sarah Dykstra, who co-leads Eco Cubs alongside teacher Nat Zinn. “Recycling batteries keeps harmful materials from landfills, safeguards our natural resources, and ensures valuable materials can be reused.”

For the drive, all classes were challenged to collect and track used batteries. Students in the Grade 2/3 class prepared posters to promote the importance of battery safety and recycling.

The class that collects the most used batteries will earn the Eco-Tiger stuffy in their classroom for the month as well as a pizza lunch. The final day for the collection of used batteries is Friday, October 9, 2026.

“I hope our students recognize that you are never too young to make a big difference,” said teacher Sarah Dykstra. “Small actions, such as making sustainable choices, reducing waste, and recycling, help us all take care of our planet.”

“Environmental education is most powerful when students can take what they learn in the classroom and put it into action,” says Algonquin Road Public School Principal Trevor Dewit. “When sustainable practices become part of everyday life, inside and outside of school, students develop habits that have a lasting impact. They also learn that caring for our environment is a shared responsibility and that everyone has a role to play.”

He added: “I extend thanks to our staff and students for coming together for the good of our planet. I would also like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Environmental 360 Solutions Inc. for their support in recycling the batteries we are collecting – helping make this go-green initiative powered by purpose.”

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Media Contact:

Trevor Dewit, Principal, Algonquin Road Public School,
Rainbow District School Board, 705-522-3171