ABSTRACT
The authors of this chapter utilized instrumental case study methods to chronicle a large California urban school district’s response to an intervention, aimed at “greening” the district from the inside out. A leading national, sustainability-focused organization provided a partially funded staff person to serve as the district’s Sustainability Champion (SC). Beginning with district-defined metrics for success, the SC facilitated district-wide sustainability efforts through providing expert information, training, and guidance. Researchers documented change strategies and related outcomes over three years. Findings reveal how district and school level leaders, in concert with the SC, applied living systems thinking to invite creative solutions and adaptations, building a diverse network of support for sustainability-related building, management, and curricular and instructional practices throughout the district. Data revealed noteworthy changes in the broad array of sustainable practices related to energy and water conservation, waste reduction, healthy and locally grown lunch programs, and greener purchasing practices. In addition, students were afforded integrated, place- and problem-based learning opportunities, engaging them in an energy auditing process at their schools that resulted in student recommendations for needed green-related facilities up-grades funded through local bond monies.
