In June, the Ithaca City School District (ICSD) Board of Education approved a Climate Action Plan Resolution, signaling the district’s commitment to a sustainable future for its students and the planet. As an educational institution, the ICSD recognizes its responsibility to model environmentally responsible practices and prepare students to navigate and address the challenges of a changing climate.
In many schools, staff and students are already implementing sustainable practices such as composting, recycling, and energy-saving initiatives. Several secondary teachers have integrated climate-focused lessons into their curricula, with some centering entire courses around climate change. While these efforts are significant, the district acknowledges the need to act more decisively and at an accelerated pace to align with global greenhouse gas reduction goals.
Currently, the ICSD faces a substantial carbon footprint due to heating and cooling buildings and transportation reliant on fossil fuels. Addressing and mitigating this footprint is critical to the district’s climate action initiatives.
The ICSD Climate Action Plan Resolution
Thanks to student and staff advocacy, the Board of Education approved the Climate Resolution on June 25, 2024. The resolution states:
Whereas the climate crisis is a social justice and equity issue primarily caused by human behavior, the Ithaca City School District, therefore, commits to taking accelerated action to reduce district greenhouse gas emissions, incorporate sustainability measures, and support climate education throughout the school community.
The resolution provides the foundation for the district to develop a comprehensive Climate Action Plan, incorporating sustainability into operations and educational decisions.
Looking Ahead
Throughout the 2024-2025 school year, the Sustainability Advocates will collaborate with staff, students, families, and community members to draft the Climate Action Plan. The ICSD invites school and community members to get involved in the climate action efforts. If you’re interested in participating, have questions, or would like to share ideas, please contact Sarah Brumberg, Armin Heurich, or Cindy Kramer.
Open Positions: Each school has a staff member who serves as the Sustainability Advocate to support sustainable practices and activities at the school level, as well as to engage in district-wide initiatives. The district is seeking Sustainability Advocates to represent Beverly J. Martin, Belle Sherman, Cayuga Heights, and Enfield elementary schools. Interested individuals can apply under the “Extracurricular” category on the ICSD Employment Opportunities page.
Together, we can create a sustainable future that benefits our students, community, and the world.