The Problem: Climate change poses myriad threats to school districts that they are not currently equipped to manage.
California schools need bold and immediate action to protect students, staff, and facilities assets from extreme heat and weather. But most school districts do not have the tools, resources, planning time, or capacity to understand current and projected local climate vulnerabilities, existing solutions for local and specific needs, and how to implement these solutions over time.
The Opportunity: Support the advancement of safe, cost-effective, climate-resilient buildings and grounds
The Solution: Regional Support, Capacity Building, and Coordination
Climate Resilient Schools Coordinators Network
Network of 11 regional staff members* to support technical assistance and capacity building via County Offices of Education for LEAs to advance climate-resilient, healthy, cost-efficient schools across California
*one full-time, regional Climate Resilient Schools Coordinator (or equivalent) employed by an anchor COE in each of the California County Superintendents’ 11 administrative regions
Milestones & Engagement
Early 2026: Updated coalition proposal
May 2025: Letter addressed to the Governor’s Office signed by the Superintendents of Humboldt, San Joaquin, San Mateo, and Santa Cruz County Offices of Education expressing their desire to participate in the program if it’s approved.
December 2024: Coalition support letter asking Governor Newsom and the legislature to fund a $10M grant program at the California Department of Education for regional support and capacity building to advance climate-resilient, healthy, efficient schools.