Keep Midland Beautiful’s 7th Annual Clean Campus Competition took place from March 3 to 27, with over 600 students from various schools across Midland participating. These students worked together to collect over 400 pounds of trash, contributing to the initiative’s mission of environmental awareness and community involvement.
The competition, which encourages student-driven campus cleanup programs, allows participants to compete in three categories: Cleanest Campus (focused on litter pickup and litter prevention programs), Greenest Campus (centered around recycling and sustainable initiatives), and Beautification Campus (dedicated to campus beautification projects). Each category challenges students to engage in activities that not only improve their campus environment but also promote lasting environmental responsibility.
One standout project came from students at Henderson Elementary, who last year placed second in the Greenest category. On April 4, they shared a presentation with Midland Times about their recent project—constructing a greenhouse entirely made of recycled materials. In addition, the students incorporated technology into their work by designing and building robots, merging science with environmental education. This hands-on approach reinforced the practical applications of recycling and conservation.
The students noted that the experience helped them understand how recycling can significantly reduce landfill waste, conserve natural resources, and ultimately support a healthier environment. They also emphasized the long-term benefits recycling could have on their community, fostering a culture of sustainability and stewardship.
Judging for the competition took place from March 31 to April 4, and the winners will be announced on May 12. The initiative, now in its seventh year, continues to inspire students to actively contribute to preserving the environment and enhancing the beauty of Midland’s public spaces.
Founded in 1983, Keep Midland Beautiful promotes waste management, litter reduction, and recycling through educational programs that aim to inspire the community to protect and beautify Midland.