Erie Day School Celebrates Prestigious Designations in Arts & Environmental Stewardship
Erie Day School (EDS), an independent Toddler–Grade 8 school, is proud to announce three significant recognitions that affirm its commitment to fostering creativity, environmental responsibility, and respect for the natural world. The school has been named an Outstanding Visual Arts Community, recognized as a NOAA Ocean Guardian School, and certified as a Schoolyard Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation.
“These honors are a reflection of our school’s mission to live with wisdom, kindness, and respect,” said Head of School Donald Fuller. “They highlight the ways in which Erie Day School nurtures academic excellence while also instilling values of creativity, stewardship, and care for the world around us.”
Outstanding Visual Arts Community
The Pennsylvania Art Education Association recognizes schools with this distinction for demonstrating rigorous, accessible, and visible art programs. Erie Day School integrates visual arts into the curriculum at every grade level. Students from PreK thru Eighth Grade experience visual art class in a studio environment, using proper art media and methods.
At EDS, visual arts instruction is highly valued and taught by an experienced educator that is very well respected within the arts community. With a designated program, a visible presence in the community through Youth Art Month participation, and ongoing promotion of student creativity through school, social media and community partnerships, Erie Day School demonstrates the depth and importance the visual arts as an outlet for expressions and as professional pursuits. Students not only learn technical skills but also develop their voices as artists, thinkers, and collaborators.
NOAA Ocean Guardian School
Erie Day School is the first school in Pennsylvania to receive this prestigious recognition from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The Ocean Guardian program supports schools that take active steps to protect watersheds and oceans. At EDS, students lead sustainability initiatives such as recycling, composting, and a Zero Waste Lunch program. These projects not only reduce waste but also help students understand the direct connection between their actions and the health of Lake Erie and beyond.
Certified Schoolyard Habitat
Through the National Wildlife Federation, EDS has transformed its campus into a certified Schoolyard Habitat, providing food, water, cover, and nesting space for local wildlife. This certification reflects the school’s dedication to creating outdoor learning environments where children can observe ecological systems firsthand. The school’s Vegetable Garden, Butterfly Garden, and Secret Garden provide both a sanctuary for nature and an inspiring space for student exploration, writing, science, and play.
Together, these honors affirm Erie Day School’s philosophy that education extends far beyond the classroom. Rooted in the school’s motto—Wisdom, Kindness, Respect—each initiative equips students with the tools to think deeply, act responsibly, and engage meaningfully with their communities and the environment.
“Whether through a paintbrush, a compost bin, or a garden bed, our students are learning how to be innovators, problem solvers, and caretakers of the world,” said Fuller. “These designations show that Erie Day School is leading the way in providing a true independent education that values both the individual child and the greater community.”
