Young artists at Amelia Earhart Elementary have made a bold and beautiful statement for the planet in the recent “Go Green” Label Design Contest, a student-led initiative aimed at promoting environmental awareness through creative expression.
The contest challenged students to design waste-sorting labels for compost, recycle, and trash bins that would not only inform but inspire their peers to make better choices when disposing of waste. The idea? Sustainability can start with something as simple—and as visible—as good design.
“We wanted to make signs that are fun to look at, so people actually stop and read them,” said Sydney Wu, one of the fifth-grade winners. “That way, everyone can learn to put things in the right bin.”
The winning designs were selected for their clarity, creativity, and ability to communicate eco-friendly practices in a way that’s both engaging and accessible for all ages. We celebrate the talented student artists behind these standout designs:
🥬 Compost & Recycle
Gianna Bernardino, Mia Russo, Aryanna Fagar, and Sydney Wu (fifth grade)
🗑️ Trash
Lana Tsang and Ximena Gutierrez (fourth grade)
The contest was inspired by a shared concern among students, staff, and parent volunteers about the frequent confusion around waste sorting in public areas like the cafeteria and playground. With more schools embracing composting and recycling, it became clear that better signage could help reinforce those efforts.
“The idea came from students who noticed that people were putting the wrong items in the bins,” explained a parent volunteer. “They wanted to do something about it—not by scolding, but by educating in a fun way.”
Dozens of students across grade levels submitted entries, turning the judging process into a joyful challenge for the organizers. Designs featured colorful illustrations of banana peels, apple cores, bottles, cartons, and even expressive trash characters—proving that learning can be both educational and entertaining.
We’re proud of all the students who participated. Their thoughtful, artistic contributions are not just signs—they’re symbols of leadership, advocacy, and the power of youth voice.
These new labels will soon be printed and installed across campus as part of Earhart’s broader “Green School” initiative, helping make sustainability second nature for all students.
“Even a small drawing can make a big difference,” said fourth-grader Ximena Gutierrez. “If our art helps someone think twice before tossing their trash then we’ve already won.”
Bravo to these young changemakers for using their art to make the world a cleaner, greener place—one label at a time.
