Heat is a growing problem on school campuses across the San Gabriel Valley. Ten students at Gabrielino High School decided to do something about it.
Through ActiveSGV's 14-week Water Youth Fellowship, they gained the tools and guidance to turn that instinct into real research." This 14-week program brought together 10 high school students interested in learning how to conduct research and better understand environmental issues affecting their campus. Through hands-on activities, interactive tools, and guided discussions, our fellows gained a deeper knowledge of green infrastructure and local water issues.
Each week, we held different activities for our fellows to identify issues on their school campuses. Using tools like the Living Infrastructure Field Kit and group brainstorming sessions, our fellows listed various environmental concerns at Gabrielino. After exploring several ideas, they identified “heat” as the most pressing issue on campus.
From there, the students developed their research question: What is the most cost-effective, efficient, and sustainable way to cool the most critical area on campus?
To answer this, fellows conducted research, collected and analyzed data, and worked collaboratively to propose solutions. They created a survey to gather feedback from their peers on the hottest areas on campus and potential solutions. Data from 10% of the school’s population showed students favor more shade trees, shade structures, and cool pavement paint in key areas like the quad, field, and senior quad, illustrating direct community input shaping solutions.
Part of this fellowship involved creating a presentation to share their research and recommended solutions. Staff from Gabrielino High School and San Gabriel Unified School District, including Superintendent Symonds and Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Chau, attended their graduation. Their support and enthusiasm highlight the importance of community backing, and funding opportunities may help turn these ideas into action.
Upon completion of the fellowship, each fellow received a $500 stipend. We’re incredibly proud of these young leaders for their dedication and passion. We look forward to seeing them continue to advocate for issues that matter most to them and their communities!
The SGV Water Action Program is funded by the Water Foundation and the Safe, Clean Water Program, ensuring ongoing support for youth-led environmental initiatives.
