Bridging Education and Community Evaluation: Assessing the Effectiveness of Initao College’s Environmental Education Initiatives for Sustainability
Junrey J. Vallente
ABSTRACT
This study examines the effectiveness of Initao College’s environmental education initiatives through the perspectives of both students and community
members. Anchored on a quantitative correlational-comparative research design, the study investigates how environmental programs are implemented
via curriculum-based activities, community engagement projects, and institutional support, as well as how these initiatives are perceived in terms of
environmental impact, community satisfaction, and sustainability. Data were collected from 120 third-year students—30 from each of the four programs and 30 community members from areas where the initiatives were conducted, selected through random sampling. The study highlights the local context of Purok 3, Barangay Apas, and the coastal road of Poblacion, emphasizing community-specific ecological challenges such as plastic pollution, tree survival, and coastal degradation. Findings are expected to reveal differences in perception between students and community members, identify program strengths and areas for improvement, and provide insights into how school-led initiatives can effectively foster environmental awareness, sustainable practices, and active participation. In response to these findings, the study proposes the LIMPYO Program (Learn, Implement, Maintain, Protect, Yields Outcomes), a student-led, RDES-facilitated initiative integrating plastic collection, tree planting, and community education. Students are required to monitor and care for the trees they plant from entry until graduation, while recycled plastics fund tree maintenance and coastal cleaning. By linking education, action, and long term sustainability, the LIMPYO Program strengthens Initao College’s environmental initiatives, fosters ecological responsibility, and empowers students and community members to actively engage in local environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
