Good news from the Spokane River Forum: The first school in Spokane County to do so, NEWTECH Skill Center has earned an environmental certification typically given to businesses.

EnviroStars certifies businesses whose practices and policies reduce and properly manage hazardous waste and conserve resources. Because NEWTECH functions like 13 different businesses under one roof, the Department of Health approached NEWTECH with the idea of having the programs which deal with hazardous waste go through the certification process.

The auto technology, collision repair, veterinary science and dental careers programs all earned the EnviroStars certification. Custodian Tim Petty helped oversee the certification process.

“With everyone becoming so much more environmentally aware,” Petty said, “it’s great for the kids to see these practices first-hand.”

“This is an important part of what we do in preparing students for careers in these fields,” said NEW TECH Assistant Director Will Sarett, “We’re helping them be aware of environmental issues and the importance of green practices, and learn how to properly handle these potentially toxic materials.”

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