Educational Ideas to Boost Your Pollution Prevention Program

Peer Partners in Environmental Education (A Program of the Center for Environmental Education at Antioch New England Institute) Mary Edie, West Coast Director

Peer Partners in Environmental Education (PPEE) has educated and empowered thousands of students in the Los Angeles area. This program provides training and materials for high school students to present to their 'partnered' elementary and middle school classes. Thes high school students not only become 'teacher', but they learn about local environmental issues, present themselves as excellent role models, and in many instance fulfill community service requirements as well. As PPEE continues to expand, we are looking to root this program strongly in many more communities.

We know this experience gives hope to teens. Peer Partners is often the first time these students see themselves as role models. It bridges a communication gap among teens in different neighborhoods, giving them a constructive task to work on together. It provides a chance for teens to emulate positive behaviors to younger children.