What happens when you bring together educators from nine Texas school districts and get them talking about the Big Ideas of Sustainability, exploring the local nature preserve, examining samples under a microscope, and desigining student projects? Magic!

This dynamic group of educators supported each other and felt invigorated to return to the classroom and initiate student projects. For example, students in the Rio Grande school district will gather data on their local watershed and share their findings with the school board and city council.

Meanwhile, in western New York State, educators from the Kenmore-Tonawanda school district and the broader Buffalo region put their heads together on how to cultivate Sustainable Schools. Insights and innovation were fueled by an engaged group of stakeholders: teachers, administrators, buildings & grounds, food service, community partners, local employers and a county politician.

They mapped their first steps toward Whole School Transformation with grade level curricular connections to sustainability on the road to recognition as a national "Green Ribbon School."

In 2021, during a period of uncertainty, we are honored that teachers came to CELF to help channel frustration into hope. We’re proud of what teachers have achieved in creating space for children to learn and thrive amidst such difficult circumstances. Our 2021 Annual Report offers a glimpse of how, through our work in 2021, the CELF team and the incredible educators we work with have continued to chart a course toward a healthier, more inclusive, and more sustainable future.