After two successful months of the Youth Environmental Academy under our belt, we are digging deeper into our climate literacy curriculum. Our new scholars have been learning about a wide variety of topics ranging from the different aspects of our local food system, to the benefits of solar power. Each week, we hone in on an environmental literacy topic and discuss real world problems as well as attainable and accessible solutions at a local level.
With our cooking classes underway, we have also begun to expand our knowledge on fresh and nutrient-dense recipes made for young people on the go. As we move into week four of our cooking series, we’re looking forward to applying what we’ve learned in the kitchen into our garden volunteering that will begin on March 20. Youth scholars will have the opportunity to support and tend to the Berkeley Technology Academy (B-Tech) garden while also instilling some of the applicable skills and knowledge they’ve gained through discussion and multi-modal learning.
Last summer, our YEA cohort successfully installed a pond with native plants to help promote different pollinators in the garden. This year, we’re hoping to continue the momentum from the past season to make sustainable and effective changes within the garden space through intentional projects. With weekly debriefs, feedback, and youth-led guidance, we’re thrilled to continue our partnership with B-Tech.
In addition to the garden volunteering starting in March, the Youth Development team will also be attending the 36th Annual Bioneers Conference taking place March 27–30 in Berkeley. We’re looking forward to all of the collective climate buzz the conference brings to the Bay Area, as well as the opportunity for youth to engage with their peers to create lasting change!
Photo: Winter 2025 Youth Environmental Academy cohort at cooking class with Chef Helga
