On May 20, the New Branches Charter Academy Green Team took their passion for environmental stewardship to the 2025 Michigan Student Sustainability Summit, held at the Minskoff Pavilion on the Michigan State University campus.
Fifteen sixth- through eighth-grade students, led by Mrs. Hasenbank and supported by parent chaperones and Ms. Vicky, attended the Summit to represent New Branches. This all-day event, organized and led by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), brought together students from across the state to explore green career pathways, learn about the state’s sustainability efforts, network with state leaders, and celebrate the impact of youth-led projects.
Students first learned about the Summit through our annual Michigan Green School application. Inspired by the opportunity, they wrote persuasive letters to Principal Larkin, explaining how attending would deepen their knowledge and spark ideas for future Green Team projects. One student shared, “In today’s world, environmental awareness is more important than ever. This workshop will equip students with knowledge, skills, and inspiration to become responsible stewards of the environment.”
The excursion offered a rich day of hands-on learning. In the morning, some students toured a mobile food processing lab where they explored food safety practices and prepared trail mix to take home. Others joined a workshop, Learn to Lead: Tips for Youth-Led Stewardship Action, gaining practical tips for launching environmental projects back at school.
During the Sustainability Career Exhibit Hall, students met professionals to explore career pathways available in sustainability. One student was especially inspired by a table promoting school composting programs and is eager to help start composting efforts at New Branches next year.
At lunch, the Michigan Green Schools Initiative recognized New Branches with Evergreen status, the highest level of certification, for our commitment to environmental education.
Lastly, two students showcased their Cloverland Project poster, developed in Ms. Graves’ book club, in the Student Project Gallery, which highlighted youth-led environmental action across Michigan.
We are incredibly proud of our Green Team for representing New Branches so well. Thanks to a generous scholarship from the Detroit Zoological Society to cover transportation costs, and the strong support of our New Branches community, our middle school students were able to take part in this meaningful opportunity.
To see what else we have planned this year, be sure to follow us on social media and keep up with our blog.