Resources for Local Schools & Educators
Schools play an important role in helping students and staff reduce waste, recycle correctly, and support California's environmental goals. The Oro Loma Sanitary District supports local schools by sharing information and resources related to state and local waste requirements and compliance. While the Oro Loma Sanitary District does not directly oversee school waste operations or contamination, we work with our partners, including Waste Management, to help schools connect with appropriate partners and educational programs that can offer more hands-on support.
Explore the resources below for sorting information, educational materials, and programs that can support your school's waste-reduction and sustainability efforts.
Most waste-related challenges can be addressed through clear signage, consistent education, and ongoing reinforcement of proper sorting practices.
The Oro Loma Sanitary District encourages schools and educators to connect with partners such as StopWaste and CalRecycle to access up-to-date guidance, educational resources, technical assistance, and support for waste reduction, proper sorting, and compliance with SB 1383.
The chart below highlights some of the most common questions and concerns reported to the Oro Loma Sanitary District by K-12 schools and educators. It also provides simple recommendations and trusted resources to help school communities.
Schools generate different types of waste every day. From leftover food and milk cartons to plastic bottles and packaging, this quick sorting guide helps students, teachers, and staff understand where common school items belong. Use the guide below as a quick reference in classrooms, cafeterias, and shared spaces.
Use these helpful tools and required materials to refresh students and staff on proper waste sorting each semester. These resources are available year-round to support ongoing education and SB 1383 requirements.
- School Activity Presentation (PDF)
- New & improved, "Sort Smarter" video for elementary schools:
- "Sort Smart Right at School" video (general):
Looking for additional tools, lesson plans, and ideas to help students build better waste-sorting habits? Explore resources from StopWaste and CalRecycle. If you want to coordinate an interactive assembly or classroom program tailored for elementary students, reach out to schools@ecoheroshow.com.
Need help finding the right resources for your school? Contact us at info@orolomasanitarydistrict.ca.gov, and we'll be happy to help.