Students from Mead, Longmont, Niwot, and Silver Creek High Schools showcased their semester-long sustainability research on Tuesday, December 9, presenting findings on topics such as indoor air quality, climate literacy, greenhouse gas emissions, and sustainable design. Their work reflects a growing commitment across St. Vrain Valley Schools to integrate real-world learning with sustainability initiatives. Throughout the semester, students conducted interviews, gathered data, and collaborated with district leaders to deepen their understanding of environmental challenges and opportunities.
These students are part of St. Vrain’s new Sustainability Internship Program developed through a partnership between the district’s Energy and Sustainability Department and the Innovation Center. Curtis Leonard, an Energy and Sustainability Specialist who co-leads the internship, says the idea grew from a districtwide stakeholder engagement effort held earlier this year. “We realized that the most exciting and meaningful way to build a St. Vrain approach to sustainability is through job preparation,” he said. “Our interns have taken that to heart, and the quality of their work has been phenomenal.” The program has exceeded expectations for applicants and the four selected interns have contributed research directly aligned with the department’s long-term goals.
As part of the experience, interns study global sustainability frameworks, listen to guest speakers across various industries, and develop actionable recommendations for the district’s future planning. Curtis notes that the internship reflects the district’s broader commitment to innovation and student empowerment. “These students are becoming subject-matter experts, and their insights are helping shape how we think about sustainability across the system,” he said. “They are truly an asset, and it’s inspiring to see young people contributing to work that benefits our entire community.”
