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Climate Literacy Mandate

What is the purpose?

Purpose of the Campaign

The overall purpose of these campaigns is to combat climate change through local school-based action.

1. Climate Literacy Mandate

The Climate Literacy Campaign aims to implement a climate literacy course within school districts so students can better understand the global climate crisis and develop the skills needed to actively engage in their communities.

The course is intended to teach:

  • what climate change is,

  • what causes climate change and how scientists know,

  • why climate change matters,

  • environmental issues affecting communities,

  • energy consumption impacts,

  • and strategies for climate mitigation and adaptation.​

The broader goal is to ensure students are educated enough to identify sources of climate change in their local communities and develop solutions to address them. With global temperatures projected to rise to irreversible levels by 2030, the campaign emphasizes that it is imperative that we take action now.

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2. Solar Panel Usage in Schools

The Solar Panel Usage in Schools Campaign focuses on implementing solar panels on school campuses to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

The campaign highlights that:

  • schools spend large amounts annually on energy costs,

  • renewable energy can divert savings into educational resources,

  • solar panels reduce unhealthy chemical pollutants,

  • and schools can serve as models for surrounding communities.

The goal is both environmental and educational: schools become more sustainable while students learn about renewable energy firsthand.

What does the campaign look like?

Step 1: Identify the Issue

Chapters begin by:

  • researching district needs,

  • identifying gaps (curriculum gaps or energy inefficiencies),

  • collecting student input through surveys or forms,

  • and building awareness through social media, school newspapers, and clubs.

Step 2: Build a Proposal

Students create a formal proposal or petition that:

  • explains why the issue matters,

  • presents evidence and case studies,

  • outlines actionable solutions,

  • and defines clear advocacy goals.

Step 3: Advocate to the School Board

Students then:

  • meet with principals, staff, and school board members,

  • pitch their proposal,

  • testify at school board meetings,

  • and work to get the issue placed on the board agenda as an action item.

School Board

Step 4: Gain Adult and Community Support

The campaigns emphasize:

  • building alliances with teachers, administrators, and staff,

  • involving students in public comments,

  • and publicizing the initiative to gain wider community support.

Step 5: Implement and Oversee

Once approved, chapters continue involvement by:

  • monitoring implementation,

  • collaborating with district leaders,

  • ensuring policies are followed through,

  • and maintaining accountability.

This ensures the campaign does not stop at approval—it continues through real implementation.

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How can my chapter or I get involved? 

If you are interested in this campaign, please read this toolkit.

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