LAMAR COUNTY, MISS.,  Tuesday, September 29, 2009—The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT)’s District Six is reaching out to local educators and students in a campaign to recognize “Go Green Difference Makers”.  Along with on-going efforts to keep state highways litter free, MDOT works throughout the year with schools to educate children about their role in protecting the environment.

In a presentation at Sumrall Elementary School in Lamar County, third grade teacher Karin Patterson was awarded the “Go Green Difference Makers” designation.  Patterson and her class of 25 students, along with their families, filled out home surveys showing more than a dozen ways they reduce, reuse and recycle as a part of their daily lifestyles.

"In science class, we recently learned about reusable, renewable, and non-renewable resources,” said Patterson.  “I was proud to see that families in our community are using resources wisely. Some students recycled cans, made special efforts to turn off lights and appliances when not in use, and reused grocery store bags.”

District Six’s Litter Control Coordinator for District Six, Ashlyn Hamilton, shared with the students how recycling, planting trees and using ‘green’ light bulbs are just some of the ways to make greener choices to help the environment.

“It is very important for us not only to educate children about the detrimental effects of litter, but to also educate on ways to think green for a cleaner and greener Mississippi,” said Hamilton.  “We want children to make an investment today to create a greener tomorrow.”

MDOT presented the students with a dynamic video featuring Albert the Monkey and Myrtle the Turtle, who together explained how children and their families can take pride in keeping Mississippi beautiful by protecting it from the harmful impact of litter.

After the movie, Albert was on hand to greet the students and distribute small bags for storing trash in family vehicles.

Hamilton said District Six will be carrying the “Difference Makers” campaign to other schools in South Mississippi throughout the school year, continuing the “Go Green” message to hundreds of other children and teachers in the state.