July 18, 2024 Newsletter
This month, discover the inspiring story of resilience from the Bay Area Climate Literacy Exchange, which overcame unexpected challenges created by the very threat that educators and leaders were united to tackle. The event highlighted the growing urgency and collaborative efforts needed to address climate challenges in education.
And don’t miss our summer recommendations. Add CAELI’s ELA Superheroes podcast as a lively companion on your road trips, catch up on CAELI’s Community-Based Partner Program Leaders webinar series replays to enhance your professional development, and more.
🌻 What to expect this month:
- Bay Area Climate Literacy Exchange
- Summer Road Trip Podcast
- Call for Green Ribbon Applications
- CBP Summer Learning Boost
- Innovation Hub Webinars
- Awards and Honorees
Dispatches from the Bay Area Climate Literacy Exchange
On February 4, 2024, hurricane-force winds struck the Bay Area region, prompting the National Weather Service to issue its first-ever warning of hurricane-force winds. It was also the day Berkeley, Fremont, and Oakland Unified School Districts were prepared to host the Bay Area Climate Exchange. As the winds grew stronger throughout the day, rattling the Chabot Space and Science Center, the organizers faced an unexpected challenge. High winds and heavy rain caused a power outage, forcing the rescheduling of the event.
This incident underscored the urgent need for climate education and action, highlighting the challenges posed by climate change. Following its rescheduling, the first Bay Area Climate Literacy Exchange successfully convened on March 25, bringing together students, teachers, and leaders from nine Bay Area school districts along with partner organizations. Keynote speaker Dr. Gita Dunhill emphasized the importance of sharing climate stories across disciplines, noting that “silence is not an option.” Participants engaged in collaborative sessions exploring climate literacy implementation at various grade levels, fostering valuable discussions and connections.
Experience the tale of resilience and collective effort. Visit CAELI’s website to read the full article and learn more about the inspiring work advancing climate literacy in the Bay Area.
🎧 Liven Up Your Summer Road Trip 🏞 🚗
Looking for the perfect way to keep everyone entertained on your summer road trip? Tune into CAELI’s ELA Superheroes podcast! Whether you’re cruising down the highway or stuck in a bit of traffic, this fun and engaging podcast is sure to keep spirits high and minds sharp. With episodes available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, it’s super easy to listen on the go. So, pack your bags, grab your snacks, and let CAELI’s ELA Superheroes bring some excitement to your travel time!
Listen and follow the podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Check it out at CAELI’s ELA Superheroes and make your summer road trip one for the books!
Green Ribbon Applications Now Open!
It’s that time of year again—the Green Ribbon Schools Award Program applications for the 2024-2025 year are now available! This prestigious program recognizes schools and districts for their excellence in resource efficiency, health and wellness, and environmental and sustainability education. We encourage all schools and districts to apply and showcase their commitment to a greener future. The application deadline is November 4, so don’t miss this opportunity to gain well-deserved recognition for your hard work and dedication.
Many members of CAELI have been honored with this award including 2024 gold winners, Modesto City USD, Laguna Beach USD, and San Mateo COE. By applying, your school or district will be recognized for your accomplishments in moving environmental literacy forward and inspire others to follow suit.
To start your application, visit the Green Ribbon Schools Award Program website. Let’s continue to lead the way in environmental stewardship and education!
Summer Learning Boost: CAELI’s Community-Based Partner Webinar Series Replays
Summer is the perfect time to catch up on professional development, and CAELI’s Community-Based Partner Program Leaders webinar series is a must-watch!
Dive into insightful discussions and valuable strategies that can enhance your program before the school year gears up again. We now have replay videos and slides from all of the spring 2024 webinars available, offering a wealth of knowledge to help you make a bigger impact in your community. Topics covered in the series include:
- Innovative funding strategies
- Building strong partnerships and collaborations
- Risk management and compliance
This summer, invest in your growth and get ready to inspire your community! Watch the replays and view the slides on the CAELI Webinar Page.
Opportunities, Events, and News
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It’s that time of year again, Green Ribbon Schools Award Program applications for the 2024-2025 year are out. Help your schools be recognized for its excellence in resource efficiency, health and wellness, and environmental and sustainability education. Apply by November 4.
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The Biden Administration has awarded forty-seven California school districts more than $91 million in rebate funding to help purchase new electric or low-emission school buses. Learn more about how the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is helping California schools.
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Trees, not asphalt are a priority. Even a little shade can go a long way when the asphalt on the school playground can reach 149 F on a hot, sunny day. Bay Area schools are working to build ‘cooler’ school playgrounds to support student health and wellbeing.
- California lawmakers are narrowing down a climate bond amidst budget pressures, potentially ranging from $6 to $13 billion, competing against an education bond, while environmental groups advocate for at least $10 billion to address climate priorities like extreme heat and wildfires. KQED summarizes what is at stake.
