Learning and Leadership through Sustainability Education: School-University Partnerships Supporting Collaboration and Student Voice

In an era of accountability, it is vital that schools can define their success in ways that transcend a single high-stakes testing day at the end of the school year. While student growth and proficiency are important educational measures, also focusing on health and wellness, stewardship of resources, and sustainability education, offers a unique and collaborative opportunity for learning communities to engage partners, reflect on goals and practices, and empower students, staff, and community members as change agents in the work. Sustainability education informs the preparation of educators and the collaboration of educators, community members, policymakers, and university personnel. This article offers insights and examples presented by a school-university partnership seeking to vitalize the three green pillars defined by the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools award designation amid a pandemic setting.