The Tri-County Recycling Partnership is proud to announce it has received the Outstanding Achievement in Education (Group) award from the Associated Recyclers of Wisconsin (AROW). The award was presented during the 2026 Wisconsin Integrated Resource Management Conference (WIRMC) held in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin.
The honor recognizes the Partnershipâs innovative Recycle Right Master Class program, a first-of-its-kind recycling education initiative in the region. Inspired by successful âmaster classâ models such as Master Gardener and Master Composter programs, the Recycle Right Master Class adapts that proven framework specifically to recycling education and community outreach.
Launched in 2022, the program was developed to address growing public skepticism about recycling and to strengthen community knowledge of proper recycling practices. By combining classroom-style instruction with hands-on volunteer service, the program empowers participants to become trusted recycling advocates within their neighborhoods, schools, and organizations.
âThe Recycle Right Master Class demonstrates how education paired with service can build confidence in our recycling system and reduce contamination at the curb,â said Kathryn Hutter, Director of Solid 91²Ö¿â with the Winnebago County Solid 91²Ö¿â Department. âWeâre honored that AROW recognized the impact this program is already having in our communities.â
The Recycle Right Master Class consists of three core courses:
- 101: Curbside Recycling â Participants learn what belongs in their home recycling bin and why, with a strong emphasis on contamination prevention.
- 201: Beyond the Bin â Covers materials not collected curbside, including electronics, batteries, and hazardous waste, while connecting residents with proper drop-off and reuse opportunities. This session also includes a tour of the recycling facility.
- 301: Recycling in Context â Explores the history of recycling, current market realities, food waste diversion, and the role of public outreach in shaping recycling behavior.
To graduate, participants must also complete 401: Ten hours of volunteer service within six months. Volunteer opportunities include assisting at community events, giving short presentations, and helping neighbors recycle right. Since its launch, participant feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Graduates report increased confidence in their recycling habits and enthusiasm for sharing accurate information with others.
By blending education with service, the program builds community ownership of recycling and creates ripple effects that extend far beyond the classroom. The programâs goals include:
- Building confidence in local recycling systems through transparent, accurate information
- Reducing contamination in the recycling stream
- Creating a network of âMaster Recyclersâ who amplify knowledge throughout the community
- Inspiring pride in Wisconsinâs recycling efforts
The Recycle Right Master Class also provides a scalable framework that could be replicated in communities across the state.