Environmentalism, Sustainability and Public Schools

Originally Published in IVCBA Magazine: LIVE.WORK.PLAY, Written by Mary Danahey

A Community Effort to Protect Tahoe’s Future

Environmentalism is not just a topic taught in classrooms here in Incline—it is hands-on projects and cross-curricular programs that prepare students to take on the responsibility of protecting the unique ecosystem of the Tahoe Basin. By fostering critical thinking, creativity, communication and collaboration, the schools are shaping a generation that values sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Incline Elementary School: Deeper Learning through Cross-Curricular Programs 

At Incline Elementary School (IES), environmental education begins early. IES integrates environmental themes into innovative cross-curricular programs, connecting grade-level classes, art, and makerspace activities to real-world applications. Last fall, students studied natural disasters like wildfires, earthquakes and tsunamis, applying their knowledge through creative projects that demonstrated their learning about the interconnectedness of the environment and human activities.

The “Bear to Read” program is a new initiative that combines environmental themes with literacy. By reading books about the natural world (bear habitats), students improve their reading skills while developing a deeper appreciation for nature.

Incline Middle School: Exploratory Classes and Sustainability Projects

Incline Middle School (IMS) fosters environmental awareness through weekly exploratory classes, where students explore sustainability, tackle issues, and engage in problem-solving activities that benefit the local community. A notable example is the “Trash to Treasure” initiative, which challenges students to turn waste into functional art or practical items. This project teaches the value of recycling and reusing materials while fostering creativity. This year, the Bear Box Beautification project continues this theme by improving the community’s bear-proof containers, giving students hands-on experience in design projects, teamwork and problem-solving; skills that are valuable in any field.

The middle school’s Leadership, Music and Broadcast Journalism classes also collaborated on the Trash to Treasure project. Students were empowered to advocate for caring for Tahoe by producing a rap song and creating “anti-litter” messaging (for stickers) encouraging everyone -locals and visitors alike – to Love our Lake and to not “Mess with Tessie”.

Incline High School: Engineering Solutions for Snow Loads

Incline High School (IHS) incorporates environmentalism in both the AP Environmental Science program and the Engineering class. IHS Engineering students received a coveted Lemelson-MIT InvenTeam grant for designing an innovative system to monitor snow loads on roofs—an issue critical in the Tahoe Basin, where heavy snowfall can create hazardous conditions. Using sensors and data analysis, students developed a solution to detect snow accumulation in real-time, demonstrating the practical application of engineering principles to local environmental challenges.

The Future of Environmentalism at Incline Village Schools

As part of the recently awarded K12 STEM School Designation, Incline schools strive to connect educational initiatives from kindergarten to high school. These diverse programs are equipping students with the knowledge and creativity to tackle environmental challenges in the Tahoe Basin. Through these efforts, Incline schools are shaping a generation of environmentally conscious individuals who will play a key role in preserving Lake Tahoe’s pristine beauty. The work done in classrooms today will inspire future generations to lead the charge for a sustainable future in the region.