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Student Earth Team urges climate literacy, reusable trays and curriculum changes in Antioch Unified
Summary
Student interns presented a climate literacy framework calling for K–12 environmental science instruction, reusable trays, trash-sorting programs and partnerships to address local pollution disparities; trustees praised the plan and asked staff to follow up on data and policy implications.
A team of student interns with Earth Team presented a climate literacy framework to the Antioch Unified School District board, urging curriculum and operational changes to reduce waste, teach environmental science at earlier grades and spotlight local air-quality disparities.
Students highlighted differences between northern and southern Antioch, noting higher pollution near Antioch High as shown on a pollution-tracking tool. "We are being surrounded by the red zone," one student said during the presentation, and presenters urged the district to add environmental-science coursework from elementary through high school and to expand hands-on programs such as a school 'trash patrol.'
The students also proposed operational measures. They recommended districtwide reusable cafeteria trays and cutlery, waste sorting that graduates in complexity through grade levels, and support to expand the district's existing Edge Academy climate class into an outreach-capable program. "Knowledge is power right now," the students said, calling for field trips, industry speakers and partnerships with organizations such as Bike East Bay.
Board members praised the students’ analysis as "sophisticated" and asked the Earth Team to provide follow-up on local health measures such as asthma rates. Trustee questions focused on evidence for environmental injustice and how programming could be scaled without displacing other priorities.
Superintendent Wayne noted the district is already exploring partnerships and policy implications, including potential graduation-service requirements and nutrition-service interactions. "There are possibly policy implications as well as partnerships with community organizations," he said, and the district committed to follow-up conversations with educational services, nutrition services and city partners.
Students and trustees suggested next steps: staff will analyze available health data, evaluate curriculum pathways, and explore partnerships that could help fund reusable food-service infrastructure and outdoor learning spaces. The board did not adopt any policy at the meeting but expressed support for further study and community engagement.
