I learned about Read, Write, Recycle! at an open house held at our state Capitol earlier this summer. I knew based on the successful recycling of 11,014.20 pounds of material, including 2,220 pounds of plastic alone in just three schools in the San Gabriel Valley, it was an opportunity I wanted to bring to Sacramento area schools.  I truly believe teaching our youth about recycling will help us all protect our environment for years to come. That’s why I’m proud to announce the new Sacramento Read, Write, Recycle! challenge.

Six elementary schools in the Natomas Unified and San Juan Unified school districts are competing to recycle the most materials during a five-week period. One of the two participating schools in the San Juan Unified district and one of the four participating schools in the Natomas Unified district will each be awarded a $500 prize based on the amount of recyclable materials collected per student.   Additionally, the one school out of all six participating schools that recycles the most overall paper, aluminum, glass, and plastic per student will receive the grand prize of $1,000.  A participation prize of $150 will be awarded to all of the six participating schools.

The program began September 25, 2012, and formed a new partnership between ACC, the Sacramento Regional Conservation Corps, and Keep California Beautiful to teach elementary school children about the importance of recycling.  As the sponsor of this program in my district, I look forward to seeing the results of our kids’ hard work.

I am pleased to be a part of this worthwhile program and continue to promote educating the next generation on responsible behaviors aimed at making a better future for us all.  Together, we can build a healthier Sacramento.

Assemblymember Dr. Richard Pan chairs the California State Assembly Committee on Health and he is the co-sponsor of the Read, Write, Recycle! Sacramento program.