Welcome!   

Operation EarthWatch (OpEW) is a free environmental action program for kindergarten and elementary-aged residents of the City of Falls Church, and all students attending Mount Daniel Elementary School, Oak Street Elementary School, and Saint James Catholic School (regardless of residential address). 

The program was established in 1993 by the Education Task Group of the Environmental Sustainability Council (ESC), City of Falls Church.  In 2018, The Village Preservation and Improvement Society partnered with the ESC to provide administrative support for the program. 

OpEW is a wonderful way for elementary students and their families to learn about and promote environmental action at home and in the community!  In this voluntary program, EarthWatchers run experiments, observe nature, participate in community events, conduct research, create art, and promote environmental action. 

Each month (October - March), an activity sheet with a set of prompts on earth stewardship (waste reduction, recycling and reuse, energy , water conservation, wildlife and nature) is posted to the OpEW web site and other available communications.  Activity sheets are also available at each school and the Mary Riley Styles Library.  Students choose 3 or 4 activities (number based on grade level) and turn in via email, to the school, or designated drop-off location.   

Participation is open throughout the school year, and time commitment is about an hour per month.  Completion of all 6 activity sheets by the first week of April will earn cool swag, a custom t-shirt, and certificate, as well as invitation to an end of year celebration, march in the Falls Church City Memorial Day Parade, and recognition at a City Council meeting.

Civic organizations and businesses in the City of Falls Church who sponsor Operation EarthWatch are critical to its incentive and recognition program, as well as the ability to provide materials and supplies for volunteer school coordinators.