Middle & High School Workshops

Fast Rot: Building a Mini Aerobic Digester to Turn Food Scraps into Soil 

Presenter:  Lucy & Ms. Buccola (Garrison)

Introduction: Learn how Garrison's biodigester works to turn food scraps into healthy soil in this hands-on composting workshop! Students will build their own mini aerobic digester while exploring how microbes, air, and moisture work together to break down organic waste. 

Discovering the Garrison Forest

Student Presenters: Liv, Susana, & Thomasina (Garrison)

Introduction: Walking through a forest may seem peaceful, but that is only an illusion. In reality, millions of organisms are hard at work, running the ecosystem around you. Each and every living thing relies on another to survive and thrive, in ways you may have not considered. Learn how to identify different plants, common mushrooms, and how to find the animals you never knew you were walking among.  This session is for visiting students only.

Eco-Home: Bird Dots & Solar Energy

Student Presenters: Clara and Anabelle (Garrison)

Introduction: In this hands-on workshop, discover how to make your home more eco-friendly by combining bird-safe designs with renewable energy solutions. You'll explore how color affects birds' vision and learn how simple window dots can prevent collisions. Then, experiment with how color and material impact solar panel performance as you uncover smart ways to help the planet. 

Home for the Buzz: Protecting Pollinators with Upcycled Creativity 

Student Presenters: Beshea and Danna (Garrison)

Introduction: Discover the powerful role pollinators play in our food system and what foods could disappear without them—from apples to almonds. In this interactive workshop, participants will learn about the challenges facing bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, then get creative by building a pollinator home using recycled materials. Help protect these vital creatures while giving new life to old items! 

Marine Plastics

Student Presenter:  Putnam Valley High School

Introduction: In this workshop, students will learn how plastic pollution enters oceans, how it harms marine life and ecosystems, and what we can do to help. Through hands-on activities and real-world examples, students will explore solutions to reduce plastic waste and protect our waterways. 

Ocean Conservation

Presenter:  Haldane

Introduction: In this hands-on middle school lesson about ocean conservation, students will participate in a simulated beach cleanup to understand the impact of human activity on coastal environments. Using trays filled with sand and scattered "pollutants" like plastic bits, wrappers, and bottle caps, students will work in teams to remove the debris. They'll record the types and amounts of trash collected, then analyze the results to identify common pollutants and discuss their sources. The activity concludes with a reflection on how everyday choices can help to protect beaches and marine life. This engaging lesson builds awareness, teamwork, and environmental stewardship.

Power, Purpose, and Patchwork: Creative Solutions for a Sustainable Future

Presenter:  James I O'Neill High School

Introduction: Dive into three hands-on workshops that explore sustainability through innovation and creativity! Learn how wind energy works by building a model windmill, discover the art of upcycling by turning recycled materials into artwork or bird feeders, and explore the power of mending to reduce waste and extend the life of your clothes. 

Sort it Right -  Keep Our Planet Bright

Presenter:  Katonah-Lewisboro

Introduction: Sorting lunch and snack trash matters.  It protects the environment, reduces waste, recycles materials and helps animals.  Students will learn to sort trash in three main bins; trash (landfill), recycling, and compost. This is an elementary workshop.

Extraordinary Journey of Ordinary Stuff

Presenter:  PNWBOCES

Introduction: This program will examine everyday items such as a pencil and a t-shirt to help students understand the extraordinary amount of natural resources and energy used to manufacture and transport these items around the globe. Students will leave with a new perspective that "away" isn't truly gone and how they can contribute to the conservation of our planet through their consumerism habits. Meet an animal ambassador who can be affected directly or indirectly by the journey of stuff. 

 Invaders vs. Natives: Protecting Local Habitats

Presenter: Greenburgh Nature Center

Introduction: Meet live animal guests as we explore the difference between native and invasive species and how invasives threaten local ecosystems. Students will also learn how legislators play a role in managing invasive species and protecting habitats through policy and regulation.

Mindfulness Nature Journaling

Presenter: Rosemary Mittan

Introduction: Slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with the natural world through mindfulness and nature journaling. In this calming, creative workshop, students will practice simple mindfulness techniques to heighten their awareness of sights, sounds, and sensations in nature. Then, using words and sketches, they’ll capture their observations and reflections in personal journals. It’s a peaceful way to explore the outdoors, boost focus, and spark creativity—all while deepening appreciation for the environment. 

Pollinator Garden Party!

Presenter: Kaleidoscope Inc.

Introduction: Help plant pollinator friendly plants in the Garrison School Garden.  Learn about the important role these plants play in healthy ecosystems.  Recycle newspaper into seedling containers and pot up bee and butterfly favorite plants to add to your garden at home.

Powering NYC: Hydropower Partnership

Presenter:  HydroQuébec

Introduction: Discover how Hydro-Québec is helping power New York City with clean, renewable energy through one of the most significant cross-border climate collaborations in North America. This information session will explore Hydro-Québec’s partnership with New York State and the Champlain Hudson Power Express (CHPE) project, which brings reliable hydropower to millions of New Yorkers.

Reusable Wood Art

Presenter: Dusti Callo

Introduction: Students will view a sample  of a small home decor accessory made of reclaimed wood pieces, along with a description of the process and a great example of recycling usable material. Students will then participate in creating a similar decor accessory with pre-cut reclaimed wood pieces that would have otherwise been discarded. Students will be encouraged to tap into their creativity to make a one of a kind, functional, and beautiful item that can be used to beautify any space.

Clothes not Trash: Reinventing How We View and Consume Clothes

Presenter: Kaitlyn Murray, La Vie Après L'amour 

Introduction: This interactive workshop begins with a brief presentation on the story of our clothes—exploring who makes them and the many resources and industries involved in bringing a single shirt from seed to store, to your home, and eventually to the landfill. Students will then take part in a hands-on upcycling activity where they transform old t-shirts into reusable bags. Participants are encouraged to bring a t-shirt from home they no longer wear, or choose from a selection provided.

You’re on the Board! A Mock Environmental Hearing

Presenter: Philipstown Conservation Board

Introduction: Step into the shoes of local environmental decision-makers in this interactive mock Conservation Board meeting! After a brief introduction to what conservation boards do, students will form their own board, choose a chairperson, and take part in a simulated hearing—such as reviewing a wetland permit request. With scripts and real-world scenarios, students will discuss environmental impacts, ask questions, and vote on the decision. It’s a fun way to explore civic action, local ecosystems, and the power of community voice!  

Wings of Change: How Climate Impacts Birds and Marshlands

Presenter: Constitution Marsh Audubon

Introduction: Would you like to learn more about how climate change is impacting your local ecosystem? Join Constitution Marsh Audubon Center’s program manager, Lexi Klahn, for a workshop exploring how 389 different bird species are being affected by climate factors such as sea-level rise, heat waves, and urbanization. Students will also participate in a hands-on activity highlighting the importance of protecting endangered marshlands. 

Wildlife

Presenter:  PNWBOCES

Introduction: Get up close and personal with the wild side of science! In this exciting workshop, you’ll meet one of our live animal ambassadors and use your observation skills to figure out what kind of animal it is. Along the way, we’ll explore animal groups, habitats, and cool adaptations like camouflage—and uncover how all kinds of wildlife are connected. Think like a scientist, ask questions, and discover what makes the animal kingdom so amazing!