Congratulations to the De La Salle Collegiate SAVE (Students Against Vandalizing the Environment) Club which earned a 2022-2023 Evergreen Award from the Macomb County Michigan Green Schools Program.  

The Green Schools program, established in 2006, awards “Green School” designations each year to schools in elementary, middle, and high schools. The program requires students to prepare an application, submitting evidence of activity in various categories, such as recycling, energy, and environmental protection.  

Led by DLS Science teacher Mrs. Nina Jacks, the SAVE Club has earned “Green” status as well as the more difficult “Emerald” designation. The 2022-2023 SAVE group decided to work toward the highest designation, “Evergreen.”

SAVE Club President Adam Pryszczewski said, “Going off last year’s momentum, earning Emerald status, the other members and I wanted to set our ambitions high. We wanted to achieve Evergreen status, and so we did!” 

The Evergreen application requires 20 or more points (each activity is a point), and activities may not be duplicated. 

“We knew it would be difficult and would require a lot of team effort, but we pulled it off, “ Pryszczewski added. “There were many extensive meetings during lunch and after school. And we did, in large part, thanks to Mrs. Jacks. Her dedication to the school as a teacher has not gone unnoticed, and I am forever grateful for her guiding hand.” 

The SAVE Club prepared extensive documentation of its recycling efforts in the building 

The group also asked the school’s administration to continue the policy of considering the environmental impact of purchases related to school supplies, building maintenance, and food programs. Notably, the school’s Summer 2022 upgrades included new, more efficient gym lighting. 

The students also prepared stickers for light switch areas, reminding students and staff to “Turn OFF the Juice.” 

One of the Energy category activities included exploring hydrogen fuel cells and geothermal and solar energy sources. The SAVE group also studied and prepared a teaching unit on environmental issues facing the state and planted a donated Japanese maple tree in front of the school.  

The SAVE Club Vice President senior Frankie Polonis earned the "Green Advocate" Award, also presented at the April 20 ceremony. Read more

Learn more at the SAVE Club website

Photo below: Members of the 2022-2023 SAVE Club. Not shown: senior Joseph Olejniczak

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