DISD Raises Water Conservation Awareness

The importance of water conservation in Dallas — especially during summer — is on the minds of many city residents (Can I wash my car? Water my lawn?). Children, however, aren't always conscious of their water use. But, in an effort to broaden the scope of water conservation awareness, the City of Dallas Water Utilities is posing a challenge to area middle school students.

The "It's All in a Drop" video contest kicked off April 23 at Billy Earl Dade Middle Learning Center, Atwell Middle School, Thomas A. Edison Middle Learning Center and Harold Wendell Lang Sr. Middle School with a series of pep-rallies (as shown in photo).

Seventh grade students at the schools listed above are encouraged to write, cast, direct and film their own Water-Wise videos and then upload them to YouTube (a technologically-advanced challenge for seventh graders, if I do say so). Winners will be determined by the most peer views of their videos, in addition to judging by DWU experts.

The winning video will be announced on May 30 at a final pep rally, where the filmmaker will receive an Apple iPod Touch and the chance to announce the Water-Wise Tip of the Day on Channel 8 with Chief Meteorologist Pete Delkus. Three runners-up will receive Apple iPod Shuffles. All finalists will have their videos posted on Channel 8's Web site.

Want to read more information on water conservation? Look here. And, while you're at it, check out the student's Water-Wise films posted on YouTube (videos will be available for viewing late next week).

—Gretchen