School-Based Climate Solutions in California

A Call to Action is a small grant initiative offered by Sonoma Water that supports teachers and their students in implementing solution-oriented projects focused on water or climate change in their schools or neighborhoods. The program aims to encourage a sense of hope and ownership in students by empowering them to take tangible actions that positively impact their environment. The grant supports efforts that bring awareness to water and climate issues and encourage stewardship among youth. Sonoma Water, the grantor, is a local government agency responsible for water supply, flood protection, and environmental stewardship in Sonoma County, California. Through this program, Sonoma Water seeks to extend its mission by engaging youth in climate resilience and sustainability. A Call to Action aligns with Sonoma Water’s educational goals by providing resources and structure to teachers who want to implement environmental projects with their students. Applicants may request up to $1,000 for projects that involve planning, fieldwork, reflection, outreach, or presentation activities. The funds must be disbursed to the school or an associated student body (ASB) account and cannot be paid to individuals. There are no indications of matching requirements or specific total program funding caps. Projects are expected to include collaboration across classrooms and can involve students from various grades. A wide range of projects is eligible, including those related to garden planning, composting, recycling, environmental cleanups, and water conservation efforts. The grant is open to teachers working in public, private, or homeschool settings in grades TK through 12 within Sonoma and Mendocino Counties and the City of Novato. School clubs may also apply if advised by a teacher. This eligibility structure ensures that applicants are based within Sonoma Water’s direct service area. The program prioritizes geographic diversity in its award decisions to ensure broad regional participation. To apply, teachers must complete an online Google Form application and submit a fillable PDF project timeline. The application collects contact details and includes structured questions about the identified environmental issue and the proposed solution. There are two key deadlines for submission: October 15, 2025, and January 14, 2026. If funding remains after the first deadline, additional applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the second deadline. Applications must be complete and submitted by the deadline to be considered. There is also a showcase event planned at Sonoma Water in April or May 2026 where selected projects may be featured. For inquiries about the program, applicants are instructed to email the program coordinator, although no specific name, phone number, or email address is provided in the materials. The grant cycle is expected to recur annually, with the next anticipated cycle likely to begin in September 2026.