The school environmental club, Operation 350, has had an upsurge of activism this year. Starting with the compost bins in the cafeteria and the stream cleaning efforts, president senior Julia Goldman has worked hard to make our school a great place for everyone.

This spring, the club is entering a local contest called the Green Schools Quest. Only 5 local high schools have entered, including Parkway North. Each school must choose a low to no cost project that will benefit their school in an environmentally friendly way. Operation 350, along with teacher sponsor Beth Karfs and mentor Erik Leuders, has decided to build a garden for our school.

“Right now, we plan to make it partially a PCH thing, but also a community garden if we can make that work,” Goldman says. This garden will provide an opportunity for students to learn how to creatively consider sustainability, as well as beautifying our campus.

There are three categories; elementary, junior high, and high school. Three winners are chosen from each division. First place is awarded $750, second place receives $500, and third place wins $250.

According to the Green Schools Quest website, the immediate goals of the project include energy/water conservation, cleaner air, and/or healthier learning environments. However, they hope to inspire a closer bond between the school and the community, as well as teachers and students.

The garden is still in the planning stages but will be completed by March of 2014.