EarthCARE Implementation

The implementation of EarthCARE in a board is planned with key people at the board in order to ensure the greatest successes. An objective is to reduce the amount of work required by board staff as much as possible.

The following are recommended components for a successful implementation:

• Every school in the board has an EarthCARE Team
• Each EarthCARE Team has a Team Leader or Coordinator, a custodian, students, possibly a parent or community person, and the support of the Principal
• All EarthCARE Team Leaders/Coordinators receive training
• All EarthCARE Teams receive in-service including an opportunity to share ideas and strategies
• The chief building operators receive training in building systems and their role in supporting the EarthCARE program
• The school board and schools receive support in terms of materials and training (for both the in-school teams and the building operators) and personnel (project coordinator and trainer) as well as assistance from the Executive Director of EarthCARE
• Funding for additional costs (e.g., release time of teachers and custodians for training, printing, meeting costs, etc.) is built into the budget so that schools do not incur costs
• Quality assurance measures are implemented throughout the duration of the program
• Communications are planned and regular, ensuring good stories are seen and heard