Sustainability and Stewardship

Sustainability

In keeping with our Mission Statement, MCDS seeks to challenge students "to envision and work toward a better world."  We strive to create ecoliterate students who not only care deeply about the environment but are also highly motivated to take action.

The school models sustainable practices through our composting and recycling programs, our efforts to reduce electricity and gas consumption, and by raising awareness among faculty, staff, and students about the need to conserve resources.

New facilities on campus -- some completed, others currently under construction -- will be LEED rated.   Green features of the new buildings include a living roof, solar panels for generating electricity and for heating water, daylighting, improved air quality, and rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing.

Stewardship

We seek to instill and nurture in students a sense of stewardship for the environment, grounded in a foundation of science and ecology. We do this by weaving a sense of connection to the natural world through the curriculum across all Divisions and grade levels.

In Lower School, students use the outdoor classroom of the Lower School Garden to learn about the planting, tending, and harvesting of food crops. Students also use the scientific inquiry process to learn about the positive impact recycling, reusing materials, and reducing consumption can have on the environment.

In Upper School science, students study the planets and learn that Earth is the only body in our solar system that appears able to support life. Upper Schoolers study biology to learn more about caring for themselves and the environment. They study environmental issues such as water use, recycling and conservation. Our Upper School garden provides teachers and students with an outdoor extension of their science labs.

By encouraging students to think critically and apply solid scientific skills, we aim to nurture an appreciation of the interconnectedness of life on our planet and an understanding of the impact of personal decisions on the common good.

(For more information see "Environmental Sustainability& Education).