On Apr. 7, students at Theodore Roosevelt School were treated to a unique and entertaining performance—an original play about protecting the environment, written and performed by none other than their own teachers and administrators!

The story followed two lovable polar bears—portrayed by Principal Devra Small and librarian Roseann Davidson—who discover that their Arctic home is in trouble. As they journey to understand the changes in their habitat, they encounter several other animals facing environmental challenges, including a bee (played by kindergarten teacher Holly Janoska) and a monarch butterfly (played by reading specialist Michele Taube).

The polar bears also receive guidance from Mother Earth (played by ENL teacher Kim Kaufman) and Mother Nature (played by science and technology teacher Regina D’Orio). But every good story needs its villains, and in this tale, the mischievous forces threatening the environment were Carbon and Methane (played by technology coach Brian Agostini and gym teacher Jeff Schiereck).

By the end of the play, the polar bears come to a powerful conclusion: the future of the planet depends on the help of Roosevelt’s students.

To encourage eco-friendly behavior, students were challenged to take small but meaningful actions—like recycling, using reusable water bottles and turning off lights when leaving a room. These actions are included as part of a special “Golden Coupon Book,” which every student received. As they complete each task, students can bring in the corresponding coupon to enter a raffle. Winners will be drawn on Earth Day for a chance to receive exciting prizes.

The performance was both fun and impactful—a memorable way to energize students around environmental stewardship and show them that even small actions can make a big difference.

Click here to view the Roosevelt teachers take the stage to inspire earth-friendly habits slideshow.

Date Added: 4/9/2025