The Seal of Climate Literacy is Signed into Law
On September 29, Governor Newsom signed Senate Bill 1048 into law, paving the way for a California State Seal of Climate Literacy! Once the state finalizes the criteria, this new diploma distinction will recognize students who are ready to live and lead in a changing climate. It will also set up a framework for more hands-on, solutions-oriented, career-connected learning in schools across the state.
Here's why it matters, from the words of a San Jose high school senior with Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action:
“I've been involved in climate advocacy for 4 years—pushing for strong local climate policies and helping support community solutions. It has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life, has completely erased my own climate anxiety, and, I hope, has helped improve my own community and our shared climate future. Every student should have the opportunity to participate in action like this, as well as learning the basic science and civics to be able to do so.”
This is what it’s all about: preparing students for the future they will inherit, helping them turn concern into action, and making sure California has the workforce and leaders to continue our legacy of climate action and innovation in the decades to come.
This win belongs to everyone who supported the Seal of Climate Literacy throughout this process. Over 1,000 students, teachers, parents, and partner organizations made this happen. Californians across the state emailed the Governor, youth leaders rallied their classmates, parents and educators spread the word in their PTA networks, and community leaders brought their schools and organizations on board. They all helped carry this bill across the finish line.
We’re grateful to Senator Josh Becker for championing this bill from start to finish; to State Superintendent Tony Thurmond for bringing the California Department of Education on board; and to co-authors Senator Lena Gonzalez and Assemblymembers Mia Bonta and Robert Garcia.
Timeline for Seal of Climate Literacy Implementation
The Education Commissioner (a new position that will be appointed by the next Governor) has until December 31, 2027 to recommend to the State Board of Education criteria for awarding the State Seal of Climate Literacy. SB 1048 includes criteria for the Commissioner to consider, including:
Successful completion of at least two approved courses in the area of climate literacy.
Successful completion and presentation of a climate literacy final experiential learning project that focuses on the causes and effects of climate change in the pupil’s local community, and demonstrates an academic understanding and practical application of climate literacy as it relates to local climate issues present in the pupil’s community.
On or before January 31, 2029, the State Board of Education must adopt, or adopt with modifications, all criteria recommended by the Education Commissioner. Once that happens, school districts can begin conferring Seals of Climate Literacy to graduating students.
UndauntedK12 will be actively engaged as California brings the Seal of Climate Literacy to life. We will share information in the coming months about how individuals and organizations can get involved in the process.
