Modesto City Schools

Student Engagement

At MCS, we feel it is our responsibility to involve our students in the teaching and learning process. Including students in sustainability programs and campus solutions is vital to the continuity of the programs. It also instills ownership of a core value that empowers students to learn new skills that can be applied beyond the classroom and show that they can make a difference.

CTE Programs

Climate Action Pathways (CAPS)

Climate Action Pathways for Schools (CAPS) is a California-based non-profit organization providing internship programs designed to meet a school district’s climate action goals.

CAPS started an exciting partnership with Modesto City Schools. The internship program officially launched in November 2023. For the 2024-2025 school year, we currently have 20 interns from 6 high school campuses. The work is focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions at a school district level developed in 5 key areas, including clean transportation, building decarbonization, food systems, water conservation, and water management.

The CAPS internship program provides Modesto’s students with the unique opportunity to be part of a process geared toward creating change that can be measured and seen within their community.

Student Energy Audits!

After analyzing energy data and understanding site plans, our Climate Action Pathways high school interns conducted energy audits of some district campuses. They prepared questions and interviewed head custodians, our Cenergistic Energy Specialist, and other staff.

Climate action Pathways high school interns partake in an after school energy audit at Fairview Elementary

Future Renewable Energy Pathways

The district's investment in solar carports and an electric school bus fleet, as well as other sustainability initiatives, has sparked interest in developing technical education programs for high school students to pursue renewable energy curriculum in Career Technical Education (CTE) classes.

Environmental Clubs

Environmentally-minded and sustainability-focused clubs have existed for years at some MCS schools. In March 2023, the Board approved "Sustainability Teacher Champions" funding at all 34 school sites to establish and lead environmental initiatives. Each MCS campus is unique and in the process of developing projects for the 2024 spring semester. Sustainability Leads from each school site will form environmental clubs and choose projects focusing on energy conservation, waste reduction, and air monitoring. If you want to join your school's club, check out your school's contact information and club name in the section to the right.

"The initiatives we are showcasing today will help the education of our students by teaching them good environmental sustainability and stewardship, as well as provide them opportunities to learn the skills necessary for the green jobs of the future."
-Dr. Sara Noguchi, Superintendent of Modesto City Schools

"Electric buses are a symbol of hope and means of change" - A Career Conversation with Gilbert Rosas

Climate Justice Career Interviews help students connect climate justice to their field of study by showcasing professionals working on equitable climate solutions across industries. In this video, Gilbert Rosas shares about his work as the Director of Sustainability and Adaptation for Modesto City Schools. Gilbert is known nationally for work leading successful school bus electrification initiatives for both the Stockton Unified School District and Modesto City Schools. Speaking with Center for Climate Justice Program Manager Remy Franklin, Gilbert discusses why school bus electrification is a climate justice win and how he empowers students to be changemakers and pursue green careers.

Earth Day 2024 MCS partnered with the City of Modesto at Graceada Park!

Some of Modesto City Schools' partners and school environmental clubs got together to celebrate Earth Day in the park! Students showcased research-based and creative projects, facilitated activities with community members, and some of our high school students ran a used clothing giveaway!

mcs partnered with city of modesto for earth day at graceada park and presented projects, and did community arts and crafts with recycled materials

Air Monitoring

An air quality project partnership is underway with UC Merced professor Dr. Asa Bradman. In the fall of 2023, MCS received 35 Purple Air Monitors and is in the process of installing one at all 34 school sites, plus the Transportation Yard. We hope to initiate after-school programs involving environmental clubs and classes in monitoring and tracking.

Through consistent tracking, the air monitors will develop a baseline for emissions. Students can use software like Excel to find correlations in air quality due to site location and surroundings, weather, time of year, and even time of day. Air monitors will gauge the annual difference in measured emission levels from the baseline. Those results will be posted on the District’s Sustainability webpage as data is collected.

Shortcut to our Air Monitoring tab!

State Seal of Civic Engagement

"On September 10, 2020, the State Board of Education (SBE) adopted criteria and guidance to award a State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE) to California students who demonstrate excellence in civics education and participation, and an understanding of the United States Constitution, the California Constitution, and the democratic system of government."

High school students can earn the State Seal of Civic Engagement on transcripts, diplomas, and certificates of completion that support both civic engagement and environmental issues facing their school and communities. Students should feel empowered to take action and address issues they are passionate about, such as climate change and public health by participating in solutions. "Helping students address these issues can inspire them to apply learning from science, social studies, the arts, and other classes and help them develop environmental literacy and leadership skills that will make them college and career-ready." Check out the 55 Environmental Service Learning Projects ideas by Youth Service America for inspiration!

Additional Resources: The State Seal And The Implementation Guide by CAELI