In a recent meeting of the Climate Crisis Response Community (CCRC), student representatives highlighted the urgent concerns of high school students regarding climate change and the need for increased engagement in climate advocacy. Tess Nessel and her fellow student representative presented findings from a survey conducted with 30 students at a district leadership conference, revealing that climate change is perceived as a pressing issue affecting their daily lives, from uncomfortable classroom temperatures to school closures due to extreme weather.

The students emphasized the importance of ensuring that their voices and experiences are central to the implementation of Portland Public Schools' climate policy. They noted that while many students are eager to participate in climate-related initiatives, they often struggle to find entry points for involvement. To address this, the representatives called for improved communication about available opportunities and the district's ongoing efforts to combat climate change.

Additionally, the survey revealed that students are not only ready to engage but also have innovative ideas for climate action, such as establishing more school gardens and enhancing energy efficiency in school facilities. The meeting underscored the necessity of inclusivity in climate advocacy, particularly for students from schools with fewer resources.

As the discussion progressed, outgoing student representative Diego reflected on his experiences and urged the board to prioritize engagement across all high schools, particularly those with less funding. His insights highlighted the disparities in resources available to students and the need for equitable access to climate advocacy opportunities.

The meeting concluded with appreciation for the students' volunteer efforts and a commitment from the board to consider their recommendations as they move forward with climate initiatives.