United for Change: Collaborating Across Schools, Cities, and Government for Social and Environmental Advocacy

Room: 214
Time: 1:30pm – 2:30pm

Students at Yosemite High School are working with the Environmental Protection Agency, local municipalities, and community partners to spearhead a battery recycling initiative. They aim to educate the public on the environmental dangers of lithium mining and improper battery disposal. Through public awareness campaigns and establishing recycling drop-off sites, these students are leading efforts to reduce hazardous waste, promote sustainability, and highlight the ecological impact of lithium mining, all while actively contributing to environmental conservation and community well-being.

People should attend this session to learn how students, schools, and government agencies collaborate to tackle environmental and social issues like lithium battery recycling. The session highlights how these partnerships develop civic engagement, educate communities on sustainability, and connect students to real-world opportunities in environmental advocacy. Attendees will discover how students are taking leadership roles, partnering with the EPA and Waste Management Authority, and contributing to meaningful change in their communities—all of which provide participants with powerful learning experiences and career preparation.

Learning Objectives:

Participants will learn:
Civic Engagement and Environmental Awareness: Attendees will understand how lithium batteries negatively impact the environment and learn how to advocate for proper recycling practices.

Collaboration with Governmental Agencies: Attendees will gain experience working with agencies such as the EPA and Waste Management Authority to secure funding and support for environmental initiatives.

Community Education and Outreach: Attendees will develop skills to educate their communities about sustainable recycling efforts and the importance of reducing hazardous waste.

Connection to Future Opportunities: By participating in this session, individuals will connect their students and administration to potential career paths and community service opportunities in environmental fields.

Speakers:

Jeff Rivero, Teacher\ UN 17 SDG Ambassador, Merced Union High School District

Jesus Vasquez-Santos
Jesus is a junior passionate about engineering, sports, and creativity. When he’s not on the field playing football, soccer, or tennis, he enjoys cooking and experimenting with new recipes. Jesus is excited to participate in the Green That School project, which aligns with his goal of becoming an aerospace engineer. He is also contributing to developing a documentary on the inspiring students of the Daraja Academy. Jesus looks forward to presenting his work at the California Green Schools Summit and making a meaningful impact on sustainability in education.

Emma Avalos
Emma is a passionate senior with a deep commitment to helping others, embracing self-understanding, and enjoying nature through hiking. She plans to pursue a career as a high school teacher, hoping to inspire students to succeed academically, discover more about themselves, and build meaningful connections. Emma is particularly dedicated to advocating for women who may not have a voice, aiming to ensure they receive the attention and support they deserve. Through her work with the Daraja Academy, Emma hopes to empower women to transcend societal and cultural barriers, providing them the tools to pursue their dreams and goals.

Jasmine Arroyo
Jasmine is a passionate senior dedicated to animal activism, running, and exploring new places. With a deep love for animals, she actively seeks out ways to help stray animals and ensures that her pets receive the love they deserve. When she’s not advocating for animals, Jasmine enjoys drawing in her free time, and when she needs a break, she goes for runs to appreciate the fresh air and clear her mind. Jasmine’s feisty yet playful cat holds a special place in her heart. Aspiring to become a veterinarian, Jasmine hopes to inspire others to care for and protect animals, continuing her mission to advocate for their well-being.

Lily Abarca-Morales
Lily is deeply passionate about environmental and social justice, with aspirations of becoming a special needs teacher. Today, she is excited to introduce a new website where individuals can create and share art inspired by the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. These goals address critical global challenges such as poverty and climate change. Through this platform, participants can raise awareness and support the Daraja girls in Kenya, empowering them to pursue their education and dreams. Lily invites everyone to join in, share their creativity, and collectively make a positive impact on the world.

Bre Goodman
Bre is a passionate senior who loves animals, sea creatures, and dedicates her time to supporting the girls of Daraja. As she prepares for graduation, Bre looks forward to pursuing a career where she can utilize her strong socialization skills to make a positive impact. Her love for helping others and her connection with animals reflect her caring nature and dedication to making the world a better place.

Ebony Munoz
Ebony is a dedicated junior who plays an active role on her school’s leadership team. She is passionate about environmental initiatives, particularly in recycling lithium batteries, and enjoys using hands-on art activities to educate and engage younger students. Ebony’s commitment to both leadership and creative education reflects her drive to make a positive impact on her community and inspire others to take action for the environment.

---