East Hudson Valley News

Poughkeepsie – Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino announced the County’s Division of Solid Waste Management has launched its first-ever “America Recycles Day Art Challenge,” aiming to educate local students about recycling and encourage them to reuse items that might otherwise be discarded. The art challenge is open to every elementary, middle, and high school student in Dutchess County, encouraging young people to learn more about recycling and creatively express its importance in their community.

County Executive Serino stated, “Recycling is such an important part of ensuring the health of our planet for future generations. This art contest is a fun and creative way to teach kids about recycling and instill important lifelong habits that will help reduce waste. I encourage all students, art teachers, and schools throughout Dutchess County to take part in this great program to help inspire our entire community to recycle more.”

To participate in Dutchess County’s “America Recycles Day Art Challenge,” students need to register by Oct. 18, 2024, with artwork submissions due by Nov. 8th. Artwork must be created out of used materials that can be recycled, such as paper, aluminum, plastic, and glass. The art can be two- or three-dimensional. Non-recyclable materials like glue and tape can be used as needed for construction. Contest registration and specific criteria for projects, as well as the contest’s rules and guidance, are available on the Division of Solid Waste Management’s webpage.

Dutchess County Recycling Educator Dani White commented, “This is a fun way for young people to think about all the items in our everyday life that can and should be recycled or reused. We are excited to see how they reimagine what might otherwise be considered ‘trash’ - such as empty bottles or packaging from a delivery – and create something new and beautiful.”

Artwork submissions can be created in school as part of class projects or submitted individually. Submissions must include photos of the artwork by November 8th for judging based on clarity, description, and creativity. Submissions will be divided into age groups for judging: Kindergarten to 2nd Grade; 3rd Grade to 5th Grade; 6th Grade to 8th Grade; 9th Grade to 12th Grade.

Winners will be announced on America Recycles Day – Friday, Nov. 15 – with winning pieces publicly displayed at the Henry A. Wallace Visitor and Educational Center at the FDR Presidential Library & Museum in Hyde Park from Nov. 18 to Dec. 4, 2024. The winning pieces will also feature at County Executive Serino’s 2025 State of the County Address.

Local schools, homeschool groups or any other school-aged child interested in participating can contact Dani White at solidwastemgmt@dutchessny.gov or call 845-463-6020.