 Leesburg, VA (January
30, 2018) – At the
Leesburg Town Council meeting on Tuesday, January 9, the council and members of
the town’s Environmental Advisory Commission (EAC) presented Hasina Siddiq with
the 2017 Tolbert Environmental Achievement Award.
Ms. Siddiq was selected for her dedication to teaching
environmental values. Siddiq is the managing director of the Sugarland Learning
Academy, located at 42981 Edwards Ferry Road. The academy’s “LEAN TO GREEN” academic program teaches pre-school
students to care for the earth in their everyday actions. Not only is the program environmentally
friendly, but the Sugarland Learning Academy building is as well. The building
features geothermal heating and solar electricity. The children learn about
these technologies as part of the curriculum.
“Our curriculum
teaches children the importance of alternative sources of energy; how harmful
emissions can contribute to global warming; how geothermal energy is virtually
free of carbon dioxide and other emissions; how by gardening we can go green
and benefit the earth; and how composting returns valuable nutrients to the
soil to help maintain soil quality and fertility.” Ms. Siddiq explained upon
receipt of the award.
“We also teach
our students that waste has a huge negative impact on our environment thus
everyday recycling is very important,” she continued. “ In a society so
disconnected with nature, Sugarland Learning Academy strives to change this
trend by teaching students in a more eco-friendly yet fun way. We look forward
to serving the Leesburg community and hopefully we can be an example for others
to follow.”
According to EAC
member Helik Shemer, “The Tolbert award is designed to encourage activities
that benefit the Town’s environment. Such activities are vital to sustaining
the quality and health of our community, and significantly contribute to the
long-term well-being of our town for generations to come. Sugarland Learning
Academy is educating a new generation on the importance of sustainable living:
Doing so by practicing as well as teaching is just what is needed to guarantee
success of this worthy endeavor."
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