Environmental Literacy and Climate Action

Empowering every student to lead with curiosity, equity, and courage toward a sustainable future.

In Petaluma City Schools, we envision a future where every student is empowered with the environmental literacy needed to shape a sustainable, equitable, and thriving world. Grounded in our core values—innovation in learning, equity in opportunity, responsibility to our planet, integrity in action, courage to lead, and commitment to community—we cultivate curious, informed, and engaged learners. By connecting rigorous academic standards with real-world environmental challenges, we inspire students to explore, question, and lead with purpose—for themselves, their communities, and the future of California.

Green Ribbon Schools Framework, Awards, Resources

Green Ribbon Program Overview

The Green Ribbon Program is a recognition and award program that incentivizes whole system transformational change for schools and districts to engage in environmental and climate action across every aspect of a school community.

PCS leverages the Green Ribbon Schools framework to both recognize and innovate sustainability practices across the system; from facilities to energy use, to food service and wellness, to environmental literacy and climate action. PCS is grateful to all of our phenomenal school, community, and business partners to realize the goals and promise of the Green Ribbon Schools framework.

Key Pillars of the Green Ribbon Schools Framework

Reduced Environmental Impact and Costs

This pillar focuses on initiatives that minimize a school's environmental footprint, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving water, minimizing waste, and promoting alternative transportation.

Improved Health and Wellness

This pillar emphasizes creating a healthy and supportive environment for students and staff. This includes ensuring good indoor air quality, providing access to healthy food options, and promoting physical activity.

Effective Environmental and Sustainability Education

This pillar centers on integrating sustainability concepts into the curriculum, fostering environmental literacy, and encouraging students to become engaged citizens who can address environmental challenges.