‘America Recycles Day Art Challenge’ Coming

POUGHKEEPSIE – Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino has announced the return of the County’s “America Recycles Day Art Challenge,” aimed at educating students about recycling and encouraging them to creatively reuse materials that are often discarded. The initiative, open to all school-aged students in Dutchess County, offers young people the chance to explore creative reuse to ensure a sustainable future.

Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “Recycling is a simple action with a powerful impact. Our Art Challenge contest brings that message to life in a way that’s fun and meaningful for students. By turning everyday items into art, we’re helping young people spark creativity and build habits that protect our environment. I hope students, teachers and schools across Dutchess County will join in and help lead the way toward a cleaner, greener future.”

Students are encouraged to create two- or three-dimensional artwork using recyclable materials like paper, plastic, aluminum and glass. While non-recyclable items like glue or tape can be used for construction, the focus is on reimagining waste into art. Submissions must be registered and sent in by Nov. 10, and will be judged based on clarity, description, and creativity.

Winners will be selected in four age categories:
• Kindergarten to 2nd Grade
• 3rd to 5th Grade
• 6th to 8th Grade
• 9th to 12th Grade

The winning pieces will be announced on Nov. 14, the day before America Recycles Day, and displayed at the FDR Presidential Library & Museum in Hyde Park from Nov. 17 to Dec. 5, 2025.

Local schools, homeschool groups and any other school-aged child interested in taking advantage of this fun opportunity, visit the Division of Solid Waste Management’s website at dutchessny.gov/solidwaste for details. For questions contact Recycling Educator Dani White at solidwastemgmt@dutchessny.gov or by calling 845-486-2841.