Educators are more than instructors—they’re the heartbeat of healthy, vibrant communities. Around the world, teachers and schools are pioneering education initiatives with profound health and sustainability outcomes.
- Chicago’s Sustainable Community Schools
Chicago Public Schools launched the Sustainable Community Schools (SCS) initiative to transform schools into community hubs offering health services, social supports, and after-school programs. Although still scaling, the effort is built on breaking down barriers between schools and wellbeing providers.
- Hope Squad: Peer-Powered Mental Health
In Utah, the Hope Squad equips students to identify and respond to peers in mental distress. Since 2004, the program has expanded across the U.S. and Canada, significantly reducing stigma and improving school mental health.
- Climate Education in Delhi’s Schools
For the 2025–26 school year, Delhi’s education department partnered with Earth Warriors Global to launch a climate change education initiative in girls’ schools. Teachers are being trained, and students will engage in up to 20 projects per school—going beyond planting trees to building environmental awareness.
- Experiential Learning on Long Island Sound
In Connecticut, Stamford Public Schools teamed up with SoundWaters to bring climate education into nature. Students in grades 1, 3, and 6 explore local marine ecosystems—sampling water and restoring marsh habitat—with ninth graders now participating in advanced restoration projects.
- Student-Led Green Schools Campaign
The Green Schools Campaign empowers students to lead their schools toward renewable energy solutions. Originating in Los Angeles, the campaign now spans 13 countries and encourages youth-driven sustainability efforts globally.
Why These Campaigns Matter
- Educators as Community Leaders: Schools are becoming epicenters for health and climate initiatives—not just academic instruction.
- Holistic Wellbeing: From mental health support to ecological literacy, education is expanding its role in well-rounded community care.
- Student Empowerment: Young learners aren’t passive—they’re guiding change, building conservation, and sustaining health campaigns across continents.
Your Turn: Elevate Your Community
Have an idea for a health or sustainability initiative? Whether you envision planting forests, organizing wellness campaigns, or engaging youth in wellbeing activism, the Society for Educators is here to support you.
Apply for a Community Grant →
Join a Network of Changemaker Educators
Last modified: August 15, 2025
