Sustainability Coordinators
As the largest public school system in the country, staff and students have a unique opportunity to take climate action.
We aim to embed sustainability in the daily operations of NYC Public Schools. Per Local Law 41 and Chancellor’s Regulation A-850, every school has a Sustainability Coordinator.
Principals appoint a Sustainability Coordinator at their school every year in September. The role may be assigned to any staff member, excluding Custodian Engineers and Principals.
Every school has a Sustainability Coordinator, but climate action is a schoolwide effort!
What does a Sustainability Coordinator Do?
Work with your school leadership, Custodian Engineer, cafeteria staff, and other staff and students on sustainability initiatives.
Coordinate your school’s Climate Action Days with your administration.
Host staff professional development.
Complete your school’s Annual Sustainability & Climate Action Plan each fall, and Annual Sustainability Survey each spring.
Attend training in October with the Office of Energy and Sustainability.
Above, SC Cherryann Ferguson of the School of Cooperative Technical Education (Manhattan)
Below, SC Josh Blum of Louis Armstrong Middle School (Queens)
Build a Team!
Recruit at least one “Sustainability Co-Coordinator” for support.
Meet with Principal, Custodian Engineer, cafeteria staff, PA/PTA, and other school staff.
Join schoolwide planning meetings to incorporate Climate Action Days and sustainability goals.
Start a Green Team/environmental club.
Spread the word - make announcements, contribute to staff newsletter, create posters or host staff professional development opportunities.
Submit a Sustainability and Climate Action Plan
Designated Sustainability Coordinators will receive a survey link to complete the Sustainability and Climate Action Plan via email. Please email sustainability@schools.nyc.gov if you don’t receive a link by October 6.
Each school must submit their Sustainability and Climate Action Plan by Friday, October 27, 2023.
The Plan will outline your school's Climate Action Days, and your sustainability goals for the year.
Resources for Sustainability Coordinators
The Office of Energy and Sustainability can provide resources to Sustainability Coordinators, including:
Annual Sustainability Project Grant – up to $5,000 for funding or materials for a sustainability project. The 2023-24 Grant application opens mid-October and mid-November.
Classroom activities, lessons, and resources.
In-person and virtual professional learning on a variety of climate-related topics.
Ongoing support from Sustainability Specialists on the Office of Energy and Sustainability team.
Climate Action Days Training
At these one-day in-person trainings, educators got the resources and guided planning time they needed to lead Climate Action Days in their schools.
Complete the Year End Sustainability Survey
Review what you’ve accomplished in the past year.
Submit annual Sustainability Survey by Friday, June 14, 2024.
You’ll receive a link to complete the Sustainability Survey in May.
FAQ
Q: I have a full schedule, when am I supposed to do this job?
Recruit a co-Sustainability Coordinator and create a Green Team - many hands make light the work
Talk to your administration for additional time allocation using one of the following structures:
If you’re a teacher serving as an SC, there are certain UFT contractual options that may provide time for this role. Speak with your Principal or UFT Chapter Leader if you are interested in pursuing any of these:
School-Based Option
Professional Development hours
Professional Period (Circular 6)
Per Session for after/before school compensation
Administrative Time Allocation Options
Extra Prep Period
Cluster Position (Elementary Schools Only)
Personal Time Allocation Options:
Prep or Lunch period (at your discretion)
Elective Class – thematic to sustainability topic
Utilizing Club Periods or Enrichment Activities – thematic to sustainability topic
Q: How can I get staff in my building on-board?
Our office provides annual trainings in August for all Custodian Engineers and OFNS Managers on policies, procedures, programs, and resources to support school sustainability.
Lead a 15 -20 minute presentation during a faculty meeting or utilize a staff newsletter to update your building on sustainability progress.
Invite colleagues to an Office of Energy & Sustainability training; they’re free and many are eligible for CTLE credits.
Share the Zero Waste Guide with colleagues for tips on roles, responsibilities, and tools.
Visit our Resource Portal with colleagues for environmental ideas, tips, campaigns, and lessons.
Q: What can I do if the custodial staff doesn't follow NYC recycling regulations?
It is required of all NYC Public Schools schools to participate and comply with NYC recycling laws. We offer educational and operational support to set systems up in your school.
Get to know your Custodial staff, and keep communication open.
If you need additional assistance or would like support in speaking to your Custodian, please email sustainability@schools.nyc.gov and request a visit from a Sustainability Specialist.
Q: Where can I get recycling and composting materials?
Order free decals, stickers and signs from the NYC Department of Sanitation.
Ask your Custodian Engineer if there are extra bins in storage or if their budget allows for ordering additional bins.
Apply for a grant from the Office of Energy & Sustainability.
Raise money: reach out to your PTA or make a Donors Choose page.
Q: What can I do about food waste?
The Office of Food and Nutrition Services (OFNS) has two programs that can help curb food waste: Offer vs. Serve and Shared Table. Discuss with your Kitchen Manager and Principal about how best to implement one of those programs.
Organics collection is being expanded to all NYC Public Schools by the end of 2024 - stay tuned for details and training