Krista S., Kodiak – While working as a Student Conservation Association (SCA) volunteer Krista saw firsthand the effect of trash and marine debris on Kodiak beaches. Her experience inspired her to better educate students in her community about the impact of marine debris. Krista partnered with NOAA, Island Trails Network, and local schools to organize beach clean ups and to develop lesson plans, virtual field trips, and marine debris art kits.
Amara S., Juneau - After a health emergency, Amara's family to switched from the Standard American Diet to a Plant Based Diet and found they were healthier physically, mentally, and emotionally. Amara noticed that many of her peers did not know what a plant based diet is or how their eating habits affected their health, so she worked with the Contemporary Cuisine teacher at her high school to developed a plant based diet unit. Students learned the benefits and how to plan, prepare, and cook plant based meals. Her unit has been added into the curriculum and will continue to be taught to future students.
Kasey Z., Anchorage - Kasey noticed a lack of engagement between elders and teenagers, so she created a partnership between the Anchorage Senior Center and the King Tech High School cosmetology program. Students provided manicures which allowed them to practice their nail technician skills, talk with the senior citizens, and help them with self-care. Kasey saw that the senior citizens were very excited to get their nails done and enjoyed interacting with the high schoolers. Many were interested in going to the school to have services done when they are able.
Daisy K., Homer – Daisy rallied youth and adults in her community to become more aware of the urgent issues related to the environment and climate change. She established a local chapter of Alaska Youth for Environmental Action, educated students and voters on the Homer bag ban ordnance and plastic spork ban at Homer High School, testified at Kenai Borough assembly meetings in favor of establishing a Climate Commission, and organized a climate rally as part of the Global Youth Climate Strike.
