The Student Kitchen is a nonprofit focused on culinary education for New York City middle and high school students. The goal of the program is to equip students with the confidence and the skills to cook for themselves and families, make healthy choices, and better understand where their food comes from. Through live demos and workshops, The Student Kitchen works hands on with participants at their schools and in their communities. They also assist with mutual aid efforts and community projects.

EfS in Schools, LeadershipCloud InstituteNovember 25, 2025Good News, EfS in Action, Food

Teachers' Unions are Using Collective Bargaining for Climate Action in Schools

A recent report and series of contract negotiations spotlight how teachers’ unions across the U.S. are using collective bargaining to demand climate action in schools.

In Chicago, the teachers’ union secured commitments for installing solar panels, enhancing indoor air quality monitoring, and integrating climate curricula. Meanwhile in Minnesota, educators pressed for an environmental task force and free transit access, and in Los Angeles, the demands include electrifying bus fleets and installing EV charging stations at schools. These moves underscore how contract talks are powerful levers for climate progress.

EfS in Schools, LeadershipCloud InstituteNovember 3, 2025Climate change, EfS in Action, Good News

A major win for youth advocacy: Oregon Teen Helps Pass Climate & Sustainability Education Law

Oregon has passed a new law requiring climate change and sustainability to be integrated across school subjects — thanks in large part to the persistence of Mikayla May, a student at Caldera High School in Central Oregon.

Mikayla became the driving force behind House Bill 3365 after noticing that her classes taught the science of climate change but not the solutions. “We’re only taught the problems and the causes of climate change,” she said. “We don’t learn anything about the solutions.” Determined to change that, Mikayla partnered with Oregon Educators for Climate Education and testified before lawmakers, helping push the bill through the 2025 legislature.