MVWSD is on the path to becoming a greener, more environmentally-conscious district. Our district passed resolutions and is pursuing regional and national recognition that highlights its waste reduction and energy conservation. Our schools are powered by 77% renewable energy. And there is more to do….
MVWSD believes that the development of Outdoor Greening and Learning Spaces plays a pivotal role in ensuring that our schools are equipped with sustainable, green spaces that promote holistic learning experiences. It’s important that our campuses have flexible and dynamic spaces that support equitable, diverse learning and recreational activities, which enhance the physical and mental well-being of students and promote a greater connection to the understanding of our natural world.
Background
MVWSD is creating spaces at each school that will provide shade, plants and outdoor areas for learning and play. The initiative began in 2022 at Jose Antonio Vargas Elementary as an effort to replace trees that had been removed. The Board of Trustees recognized that there were greater needs at this campus, and across the District. The Board passed the
Climate Change and Green Schoolyard Board Resolution (05-012623) in February 2023 that specified a Greening Index that establishes an increase of green space to meet minimum standards of 30% green space per campus. MVWSD has engaged consultant Carducci to prepare concept‐level landscape plans for each school site beginning with Vargas Elementary in January 2023.
Timeline of Work
The Environmental Sustainability Action Plan was created by a group of parents, experts, community organizations and staff to guide the district in their sustainability efforts. The committee met monthly and held special meetings to develop the plan in conjunction with the board.
Developing Assessment Categories (Complete)
By developing and assigning “green scores and a green index,” the community, District and Board of Trustees can effectively assess the value of improvements that could be included in an outdoor area, by identifying potential recreation elements and areas that require enhancement or development. These metrics encompass six key objectives: Physical Comfort, Mental Well-Being, Exploration And Discovery, Outdoor Learning, Operations and Sustainability, Student Safety and Experience.
School Staff Meetings (October and November 2023)
School staff members were invited to share thoughts and ideas about areas of need for outdoor learning, shade, planting and sustainability among many other topics.
Community Meetings (November and December 2023)
Parents, neighbors, residents, and environmental groups were invited to share thoughts and ideas
Reporting to the Board of Trustees (November 2023)
* Carducci reported on the Greening Index, got Board feedback and priorities on Nov. 16, 2023 and then held additional study sessions with the Board.
Developing a Green School Index for MVWSD (Spring 2024)
* The Board discussed development of green measurements in January and April 2024
Planting donated trees (Fall 2024)
Schools are the recipients this fall of newly planted trees donated by Google and coordinated through Canopy, a non-profit.
Community meetings on greening priorities (October, November 2024)
Now that the District has greening scores and greening metrics for each campus as a starting point of discussion, community members, staff, and students will share their most important greening priorities for their campuses.
November 21, 2024 Board Presentation on initial plans
December-January 2024-2025-Community meetings for feedback on designs
February 13, 2025- Board presentation on plans and feedback received.
March 2025- Community meetings to review designs
April 24, 2025 - Potential Board approval of schematic design plans