Mom brings Earth Day to preschool

One mother brought some Earth Day awareness to Sisters’ youngest citizens. Jana Novotny introduced the “It’s not cool to idle at school” program to her son’s preschool to encourage parents to turn off their engines when dropping off and picking up their children.

Sponsored by the Oregon Environmental Council, the program includes a pledge card for parents to sign. It honors Earth Day, which was celebrated throughout Oregon last Saturday.

“The very reason why we are here is the mountain fresh air,” said Novotny.

Novotny said she becomes aware of the problems of breathing exhaust when she takes her older son to Sisters Elementary School. Her family lives downtown so she takes her sons to school by bike or sled depending on the weather. The family saves their car for longer trips.

Novotny said so many parents drop students off at school, it is hard to walk through the smelly air from the idling cars.

“We cannot hold our breath the whole way,” said Novotny.

Novotny said she is talking with the school about improvements to the drop-off area. While the exhaust problem is not so bad at her younger son’s preschool, she said she was pleased to see the owner embrace the anti-idling program.

A Joyful Noise Learning Center and Preschool owner and teacher Evelyn Brush said she was happy to participate to help her students “breathe easier.”

“We want them to be good stewards especially as this town is growing so much,” said Brush. “They are the future for the community, so we are investing in the future of Sisters.”

Novotny said many parents simply don’t realize the effects of exhaust on young lungs. According to the Oregon Environmental Council, car exhaust, especially from diesel, contains hazardous air pollutants that can increase asthma symptoms in children. Also, idling for more than 20 seconds uses more fuel than restarting a car’s engine.

Novotny was happy to start a program aimed at reducing air pollution in Sisters.

“It’s a wonderful first step,” said Novotny.