08/28/2026
Second Graders Turn Questions Into Action at Eastside Elementary
Sometimes, the biggest changes begin with a simple question.
During a Magnetic Literacy lesson, Ms. Hernandez’s second-grade students were learning about recycling when they began wondering why Eastside Elementary did not have a recycling program or recycling containers available for students.
Rather than simply accepting the situation, the students took action. They wrote a letter to Dr. Scott, sharing their concerns and asking what could be done to increase recycling at Eastside.
Their letter sparked a partnership with the City of Douglasville Recycling Department, who graciously visited the class to talk with students about the importance of recycling, answer their many questions, and teach them how they can make a difference. The department also provided the class with a recycling container, educational materials, and T-shirts.
The students left the experience with more than just new knowledge—they left with a deeper understanding of what it means to be a changemaker.
Dr. Scott reminded the students, “This is how change is made. You see an issue or a problem, and you don’t complain—you act.”
And that is exactly what these second graders did.
Because of their curiosity, courage, and willingness to speak up, Ms. Hernandez’s classroom now has its very own recycling container. What began as a literacy lesson turned into a real-world lesson in civic responsibility, advocacy, and leadership.
At Eastside, we are proud to see our students not only learning about the world around them, but also recognizing that they have the power to make it better.
One question. One letter. One classroom. One small action that can make a big difference. 🌎♻️🐻
