A Brief "Projects" History of the Training Student Organizers Program

Abstract

This is a history of the Council on the Environment's Training Student Organizers (TSO) Program based on the main categories of action projects organized by high school and other students over the last decade. TSO staff have guided students and teachers in the City's public high schools through several phases of projects from direct physical improvement efforts like cleanups to more issue oriented projects such as letter writing campaigns to protect drinking water quality. By training students to organize such projects staff has developed a service oriented, experiential, environmental education program which has led students to learn about environmental issues and develop organizing skills and self confidence. While not satisfying the needs of all participating students, each type of project has had its benefits for student growth and community change.