​​SAN JOSE, CA – The Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE) welcomes the creation of the Seal of Climate Literacy following Gov. Gavin Newsom’s signing of Senate Bill 1048. The new law creates a voluntary statewide recognition for high school students who demonstrate understanding of climate science and environmental literacy through coursework and applied learning. This new seal joins the State Seal of Biliteracy and State Seal of Civic Engagement seals students work towards. 

The state will develop criteria for the new seal to go into effect in the 2028-29 school year. Meanwhile, the SCCOE is highlighting the environmental literacy and sustainability efforts throughout Santa Clara County and its support to school districts interested in participating in the coming seal. 

“This new state seal recognizes the importance of climate learning and advocacy already taking place in schools across Santa Clara County,” said Santa Clara County Board of Education Trustee Tara Sreekrishnan. “I’m grateful to youth voices who advocated for this seal. I’m even more excited to see future graduates receive recognition for their commitment to environmental literacy and climate action.”  

For several years, SCCOE’s Environmental Literacy team has supported school districts, educators, and students to expand environmental literacy throughout the county. Efforts include:

As state guidance is developed, the SCCOE looks forward to supporting school districts as they expand opportunities for climate learning and engagement. The new seal will provide students with an understanding of climate science through community-based projects, civic engagement, and environmental problem-solving. 

Visit the SCCOE’s Environmental Literacy webpage for more information about support for districts.