Welcome to New Jersey’s 2009 Recycling Poetry Contest.
We are looking for young writers in grades 4 through 6 to contribute
poems to be showcased in our 2010 recycling calendar. Entries must be
postmarked no later than May 18, 2009.
Recycling is the law in New Jersey, and while the program enjoys a
certain amount of popularity, the recycling rate has decreased in each
of the last several years. Additionally, we often hear from residents
and students who tell us that many of New Jersey’s schools aren’t
recycling. Therefore, in order to promote recycling in our schools,
we think it is important to encourage as many students as possible to
participate in this contest.
This year’s recycling poetry contest is open to all New Jersey
students, grades four through six. Schools must select no more than
three (3) poems from each eligible grade level to submit to the NJ Department
of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Recycling and Planning, for entry
into the statewide contest. A review committee will then select 12 winning
poems to be featured in the 2010 recycling calendar. This full-color
calendar will be distributed at no cost to schools, local and state
government agencies, libraries and others.
Students are asked to submit a poem of 100 words or less explaining
why they believe recycling is an important component of New Jersey’s
solid waste management policy, and why it’s important for all
students and schools to participate in their local recycling programs.
In reviewing the entries, the judges will look for understanding of
theme, originality, ability to convey a concept, and creative thinking
and writing. Winners at the state level will receive a prize in addition
to being featured in the calendar.
The NJDEP Bureau of Recycling and Planning is sponsoring this contest
as part of its ongoing public awareness and education effort. If you
have any questions concerning this program, please contact Vicki Kerekes,
Contest Coordinator, at 609-984-3438 or by e-mail at victoria.kerekes@dep.state.nj.us.
We look forward to receiving entries from your students!
Poetry Contest Links:
Rules
Checklist
Resources
Curriculum Standards
Coordinator Information
Release Form
SRWM