Roseville middle schoolers are stepping up and speaking out—on sustainability.
This year, over 3,000 students from Chilton, Eich, and Buljan middle schools participated in the “Take Action” program, a partnership between their schools and the Utility Exploration Center (UEC). Designed for grades 6 - 8, this hands-on initiative dives into the real-world impact of utilities and how small actions can lead to big environmental change.
Each grade tackled a different theme:
- 6th graders tested creek water, learned about water conservation, and brainstormed ways to protect our waterways.
- 7th graders explored composting and the impact of food waste on landfills.
- 8th graders built and raced solar-powered boats while uncovering practical energy-saving strategies.
After their lessons, students brought their learning to life through creative projects: water conservation posters, food waste reduction social media campaigns, and videos proposing energy-smart changes we can all make.
The excitement built to a head at the end-of-year awards event, where 280 people, including students, families, teachers, and Roseville utility staff, gathered to celebrate. Here's how the finalists were chosen:
- Each school submitted their top 10 projects per grade.
- UEC staff narrowed the list to a final top 10 citywide.
- Roseville utility employees cast their votes by grade level: water (6th), waste (7th), and electric (8th).
- The top three projects in each grade earned medals; all 10 finalists received certificates.
The event kicked off with a welcome and a program overview, followed by the student project showcase. The creativity and passion on display were inspiring and proof that the next generation of Roseville leaders is ready to take action.
“The growing relationships and partnership the UEC is building with our local middle schools is contagious," said Melissa Kinsey, Interpretive Services Specialist overseeing the Take Action initiative. "Expanding beyond Chilton Middle School to serve another two schools in Roseville shows the amazing impact our program AND these students can have on our community. I can’t wait to see what next year brings!”
This year’s expanded program shows just how powerful local partnerships can be in growing environmental awareness. And with even more students expected to join next year, the momentum is only building.
