NAPERVILLE – Senator Laura Ellman (D-Naperville) is      encouraging parents and teachers to encourage their students to learn more about the environment and get creative from the safety    of their homes through the Illinois Environmental Protection      Agency’s Poster, Poetry and Prose Contest.

“Teachers and students have experienced a multitude of sacrifices this year – but teachers have stepped up to make sure their      students still receive a quality education, Ellman said. “These new virtual resources are a great way for students to learn more about the environment and climate change from the safety of their      home.”

Senator Ellman is encouraging fifth and sixth grade students to      take part in the Illinois EPA’s is Poster, Poetry, and Prose Contest. The theme of 2021 will focus on how food waste diversion options    affects the environment, including climate change, and why it is important to choose environmentally friendly options.

Educators, parents and caregivers are asked to introduce these topics to students using the Illinois EPA’s free, online curriculum titled “Environmental Pathways: Where does my food go?” Students are asked to create posters or written works related to the theme’s focus. 

Entries must be submitted to the Illinois EPA by Feb. 1, 2021. The winners will be announced via email in April. For additional information, visit: https://www2.illinois.gov/epa/topics/education/contest/Pages/default.aspx.