Perspectives from a Young Voice on Making Schools and Individuals Agents of Change

Abstract

This chapter presents a student’s opinions and views about how US schools are not properly doing their part to educate students on environmental, social, and economic issues. It introduces basic ways schools can further incorporate sustainability lessons into core-subject lessons. It also explains ways people can make changes in their daily lives to support the preservation of natural environments and to begin to live sustainably, while simultaneously spreading awareness and educating others. To conclude, the chapter discusses ways the author herself works every day to create changes in her family, her school, and her community. The chapter draws on the author’s experiences as an environmental assistant in her California (USA) high school’s sustainability programs and as an advocate for women’s empowerment and environmental awareness locally and internationally.