16 Aug Back to School: Green Ideas and Resources

Back to School!

Classes begin for Austin ISD, Eanes ISD, Lake Travis ISD and Round Rock ISD on Monday, August 27th and for Pflugerville on August 28th. Here are a few dates, ideas and events to help you get ready:

The AISD 7th annual Back to School Bash and Safety Fair on Saturday, August 18th.

Texas' Sales Tax Holiday is this Friday through Sunday, August 17th – 19th and applies to backpacks for elementary and secondary students, clothing, and school supplies. Individual items must be under $100.

Get ideas for greener options for school supplies at greenrightnow 2012 guide or The Ultimate Green Store. You can also stop by Austin's own EcoWise or check out AEN blogger Chris Searles' website for recycled paper products. Another option is a trip to Texas Office Products & Supply (TOPS) to see if you can give a second life to abandoned (and sometimes vintage) office supplies.

If you're looking for an alternative school for your child, you might want to start at the Alt Ed Austin Alternative School Directory, where alternative schools are listed in alphabetical order along with their locations, ages/grades served, philosophies, and other basics.

GrowinTogether kicks off their new Afternoon Enrichment Program with the Eco-Art Fest this Saturday, August 18th from 6:00pm to 10:00pm. The event features live music, local food, art making, permaculture workshops and more. Get all the details here.

Eco Kids Preschool is having an open house this Saturday, August 18th from 12:00pm to 3:00pm. Details here.

Finally, help your school develop programs that reconnect kids with nature and encourage an environmentally-friendly learning environment with the Green Ribbon Schools award program. Resources here.