Ithaca's grassroots high school since 2009
Environmental Stewardship
Restoring the natural world that sustains all life is essential to our well being.
Request more info to learn how a high school journey of self-discovery can empower a successful life of passion and purpose.
Going to New Roots changed my outlook on going to school. The curriculum is full of hands-on activities and so many extraordinary opportunities. New Roots is a life experience that is unlike any other.
~ NRCS Alum ~
EDUCATION FOR SUSTAINABILITY
Growing students for a just and sustainable future since 2009.
Restoring the natural world that sustains all life is essential to our well being. Students explore through classroom projects, outdoor learning expeditions, the Cayuga Wetlands Restoration Project, the Urban Farm Project and more.
The Cayuga Wetlands Restoration Projectet started in a 2016 senior science class in response to water quality testing and research about indigenous land and water management practices. Today, students can apply for summer jobs, funded by New York State Department of Environment Conservation (DEC) grants to learn ecosystem restoration and bioremediation skills while providing the labor to expand the wetlands sites as part of the DEC’s initiative to protect and improve our waterways in New York State.
“Inspired by the values of the first people who were stewards of this land, New Roots expresses the core value of respect for self, respect for others, and respect for the environment into all that we learn and do.”
Tina Nilsen-Hodges
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FOUNDER & PRINCIPAL
WE WALK THE TALK
New Roots students succeed in finding a life path and purpose through our award-winning program.
National & Local Awards
- 2021 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School Award
- 2021 NYS Department of Education Green Ribbon School Award
- Top 10 Green School in the US
- 2019 Best of Green Schools Award via Green Schools National Network
- #1 Youth Project 2017 People's Choice Signs of Sustainability Award
- First school in the US certified as a Human Rights Friendly School
- Top Green High School Award from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)
- NYS Master Teacher (David Streib)
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LET'S TALK ABOUT YOUR GOALS
Choosing an appropriate high school for your student is an important decision and we can help. Click below to schedule a conversation to explore if New Roots is right for your family.