Climate change and environmental issues will affect our generation throughout our lives. As students, we deserve opportunities to understand these challenges and learn how we can make a difference in our communities.

When EGUSD removed 9th-grade World Geography, students lost one opportunity to learn about environmental geography through that class. Underclassmen may also have limited opportunities to study environmental science in depth since AP Environmental Science is generally offered to upperclassmen. Not every student wants to take an advanced class, but that should not mean they have fewer opportunities to learn about the environment. California has taken steps to strengthen climate education through AB 285, and EGUSD should build on these efforts.

I urge the EGUSD Board of Education to strengthen climate and environmental education for underclassmen by integrating these topics into 9th grade Biology and/or 10th grade World History. These classes could explore how climate change affects ecosystems and biodiversity while introducing students to sustainability and environmental justice. EGUSD should also consider using CSBA’s sample Board Policy 6142.5 as a framework for making environmental education a more consistent part of students’ learning.

By strengthening environmental education within existing classes, EGUSD can help prepare students to understand the challenges that may shape their future without requiring an entirely new course.
Please sign this petition to urge EGUSD’s Board of Education to strengthen climate and environmental education for underclassmen. Students deserve the opportunity to learn about these challenges and discover how they can make a difference.