California Youth Climate Policy (CYCP) Leadership Program Graduates 45 Students

The California Youth Climate Policy (CYCP) Leadership Program celebrated the graduation of its third cohort of youth climate leaders, marking the culmination of seven months of learning, leadership development, and civic action. Forty-five students successfully completed the program – a partnership between UndauntedK12, Ten Strands, and the Sierra Club – joining a growing statewide network of youth leaders advancing climate policy in California’s schools and communities.

Throughout the program, Cohort 3 students built policy knowledge, developed Personal Leadership Plans, led advocacy campaigns, conducted research, and presented to school boards and decision-makers across the state.

Photo credit: Ten Strands

Students campaigned for district climate action plans, recycling and composting programs, reusable lunchware, climate literacy curriculum, electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, school gardens, and more.

Along the way, they navigated complex systems, learned how to build coalitions, and found their voices as advocates for change, learning firsthand how to participate in democracy and drive systems-level change. Building on the strong foundation laid by Cohorts 1 and 2, CYCP Cohort 3 once again demonstrated what is possible when young people are trusted, supported, and equipped to lead.

We look forward to seeing what Cohort 4 of CYCP students will accomplish! Applications open Spring 2026.