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Sustainability Standing Committee

Purpose(s)/Goal:

  • Implement and report on progress of goals within the 5-year Climate Action Plan: Toward a Sustainable and Resilient Bellingham Public Schools.

Basis for Establishment: 

  • To continue the work initiated by the Sustainability Task Force of 2022 and the work of the 2022-23 and 2023-24 Sustainability Advisory Committee. This includes acting upon the foundational statement recommended by the task force: Sustainability should inform everything that we do. It is imperative we invest in actions that protect our students, staff and families. We pledge to take bold steps to build a bright and healthy future for our community through a systemic commitment to sustainability.
  • To align Bellingham Public Schools with community efforts to address the climate crisis, including the City of Bellingham Climate Action Plan.
  • The Washington State Superintendent has established Integrated Environmental and Sustainability Learning Standards for K-12. Environmental education is a mandatory area of study in Washington, required by WAC 392-410-115.

Decision-Making Process: 

  • The standing committee will utilize processes of consensus and input/feedback. We will engage in clear communication among team members and with stake holders regarding the work.
  • The group will be a recommending body to the superintendent.

Plan of Work:

  • Between November 2024 and May 2026. the standing committee will be updated about progress toward Climate Action Plan goals and advise on projects happening throughout the district

Responsibilities: 

  • Attend all meetings and engage in reflective conversations
  • Gather and share feedback from stakeholder groups
  • Interact collaboratively and respectfully with all committee members.

Budget Implications:

All anticipated budget expenses the advisory committee will be covered through the 2022 sustainability bond fund.

Other

In addition to representation on the advisory committee, relevant groups will be targeted to solicit input and provide feedback through focus groups.

Meeting Notes & Docs

Members