M-DCPS Partners with Fertile Earth Worm Farm for “The Art of Compost”
Interactive art project celebrates composting, repurposing, and the science of the “Cycle of Return.”
MIAMI, FL — March 11, 2026 — This Earth Day, students from Miami-Dade Public Schools (M-DCPS) will be repurposing old Fertile Earth composting containers (aka “toters”), and turning them into vibrant educational works of art. The toters will be displayed in front of schools, as the students celebrate both composting and repurposing, in “The Art of Compost.”
The contest is an addition to the ongoing Miami-Dade County Composting pilot program with Fertile Earth, and merges STEAM education with civic action. Student art teams will interpret the science of decomposition and the beauty of the “Cycle of Return,” turning organic food scrap collection bins into public symbols of environmental stewardship.
This year’s theme, “Nurturing Nature: The Cycle of Return,” challenges students to visualize the journey from food scraps to nutrient-rich soil. From the microscopic world of microbes to the work taking place at Fertile Earth Worm Farm.
“Our goal is to make composting fun and visible,” said Dr. Lanette Sobel, founder and president of Fertile Earth Worm Farm. “By moving these bins from the cafeteria loading docks to the front of the schools, we are showing parents and the community that M-DCPS students are leading the charge in reducing landfill waste and keeping our Earth beautiful.”
Key Dates
- Design and execution phase by Student Art Teams: March 3 – April 10
- Submission deadline: April 15
- Public display and voting period: April 16 – April 21
- Winners officially announced (Earth Day): April 22
Photos of finished toters will be uploaded to Fertile Earth’s social media and will be made available to the press. Community voting will take place on social media (@FertileEarth using hashtags #FertileEarthDay2026 and #MDCPSComposts) from April 16, 2026 to April 21, 2026.
The finalist will be announced by a surprise guest artist. Winners will be celebrated with a headline feature in the Fertile Earth Monthly Newsletter, a “Sustainability Spotlight” on the M-DCPS website, and a dedicated social media “Winner’s Circle” blast.
Every participating school will receive digital recognition in honor of its commitment to environmental science.
About Fertile Earth Worm Farm and the M-DCPS Pilot
Fertile Earth Worm Farm is currently in a year-long composting pilot program with seven schools participating from Miami-Dade County Public Schools. The partnership has also yielded other programs, including the “Pumpkin Smash,” aimed at collecting pumpkins during Thanksgiving, and a program of educational field trips.
Media Contact
Esther Charlery Hiddo, Events Coordinator
Email: Esther@FertileEarth.Net
Phone: (786) 232-3772
