NCSS TO RECOGNIZE ANNUAL SUSTAINABILITY EDUCATION WEEK

Supported by: NCSS Environmental and Sustainability Education Community, U.S Partnership for Education for Sustainable Development

RATIONALE, Recognizing the NCSS Board of Directors has declared their support of a program that seeks to educate and prepare students to be active citizens by endorsing the U.S. Partnership for Sustainable Development’s National Education for Sustainability K-12 Student Learning Standards as of October, 2010; and

RATIONALE, reaffirming NCSS recognition of the interconnectedness of the human and natural environment and the interrelated nature of events, problems and ideas; and

RATIONALE, the promotion of civic competence requiring that students have the ability to use their knowledge about their community, nation and world to make informed and reasoned decisions for the public good as citizens of a diverse, democratic society in an interdependent world; and

RATIONALE, bearing in mind, humanity and the planet today face unprecedented challenges such as climate change, food and water shortages, environmental degradation, conflict, and global health issues which must be addressed through critical and creative thinking and innovative problem solving; and

WHEREAS, a focus on education for sustainability by teachers across all content areas helps students learn skills, perspectives, and values that can guide and motivate them to seek sustainable livelihoods, fully participate in a democratic society, and live in a sustainable manner; and

WHEREAS, sustainability resides at the intersection of a vibrant economy, an equitable society, and a healthy environment in the interest of meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs; and

WHEREAS, by applying the lessons of the past, the experiences and needs of the present and their vision for the future, students can take an active role in acquiring the competencies, habits of the mind and knowledge necessary to participate as citizens in the creation of a sustainable future; and

WHEREAS, colleges of education and social studies teachers play a vital role in creating a more just and sustainable world; and

WHEREAS, school and district operations and services can contribute toward a learning model that is educating for sustainability; and

WHEREAS, sustainability literacy is a prerequisite for participating in the emerging green economy and for engaging with critical local, regional, and global issues; and

WHEREAS, young people will benefit academically and personally from expanded opportunities to engage in sustainability education learning experiences; and

WHEREAS, young people today have the motivation and ability to make important contributions to the creation of a sustainable world both now and for future generations and should be valued for the idealism, passion, energy, creativity, and commitment they bring to the challenges in their communities.

BE IT RESOLVED, that the second week of November be devoted to the recognition of students, teachers, colleges of education, and the larger community working to create sustainable communities; and

BE IT RESOLVED, that the second week of November be recognized by the NCSS, as National Sustainability Education Week.

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