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Associated Press
9 hours ago
- Health
- Associated Press
California Safe Schools – A Global Voice for Environmental Health Honors Youth Heroes
LOS ANGELES, Calif., June 17, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — For more than 27 years, California Safe Schools (CSS) has been a leading advocate for environmental health, dedicated to upholding the highest standards for clean air, water, and soil, and advancing the fundamental right to a safe and healthy environment. Founded by Robina Suwol, a bold and visionary leader in the field, CSS is rooted in the principles of the Precautionary Principle and the public's Right to Know—ensuring that transparency, accountability, and prevention are central to environmental decision-making. The organization has played a pivotal role in shaping policies that safeguard schoolchildren, educators, families, and communities from toxic exposures. From its roots in Los Angeles to its growing influence, CSS has become a global voice for environmental health—helping to shape policies and inspire environmental movements across the world. In 1998, CSS led the creation of the most protective school pesticide policy in the nation, in partnership with the Los Angeles Unified School District—the second-largest school district in the United States. This landmark policy, prioritizing 'no harm' long-term pest management, public disclosure, and stakeholder participation, set a successful precedent that has become a national and international model for creating safe learning environments. 'California Safe Schools remains a leader in community-driven environmental reform, advancing science-based policies, accountability, and a strong public voice for a healthier, more just future,' said Rhonda Jessum, Founder and Director of Our Right to Know. Today, CSS continues to help communities address environmental threats with practical, forward-looking solutions, working alongside long-time community leaders, regulatory and enforcement agencies, policymakers, and a new generation of youth leaders. Its reach now extends far beyond California, inspiring policies and programs throughout the country and worldwide. 'To further demonstrate California Safe Schools' commitment to children's health, CSS partnered with the Department of Toxic Substances Control to launch the statewide Toxic Crusaders Program,' said Mui Koltunov, Ph.D., Research Scientist at DTSC and Director of the program. 'This initiative educates students about environmental contaminants and empowers them to develop real-world solutions.' Robina Suwol, Founder and Executive Director of CSS, emphasized the organization's enduring mission. 'Safeguarding the health of students, educators, and communities is not merely an aspiration—it is a moral imperative. At California Safe Schools, we are proud to empower the next generation of leaders—young people who are transforming awareness into action and working to build a safer, healthier world for all, both within our schools and throughout the communities they serve.' YOUTH HONOREES – 2025 CSS ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH HEROES Cassandra Sam Cassandra graduated with honors as Salutatorian and served as Associated Student Body Vice President at Bassett High School. Her involvement with the Toxic Crusaders program began in 2018, sparking a strong interest in environmental health. That experience led to an internship with the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) and, most recently, a volunteer assistant role with the 2024 Toxic Crusaders program. 'These experiences broadened my horizons through diverse environments and opportunities,' she shared. This fall, Cassandra will attend the University of California, Irvine, where she plans to major in Biology. Inspired by her work with Toxic Crusaders, she hopes to pursue a career in the healthcare field. Alexander Thai Alexander will begin his senior year at Rosemead High School this fall, bringing with him a deep commitment to public and environmental health. His participation in the Toxic Crusaders Program sparked a strong interest in protecting communities from the harmful effects of toxic chemicals and inspired him to learn more about the intersection of science, health, and environmental justice. Through this experience, Alexander developed a passion for advocacy and a desire to make a lasting difference. Looking ahead, he plans to pursue a career in the medical field, where he hopes to combine his scientific interests with his dedication to creating healthier, safer communities for all. Jean Kim Jean, a junior at Valencia High School, is a dedicated student enrolled in the school's prestigious Medical Science Academy, where she explores her passion for health and science. She has actively participated in the Toxic Crusaders Program for four years and recently completed an internship with the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), where she gained valuable insight into environmental health and regulatory work. Motivated by her experiences, she is eager to deepen her understanding of environmental issues and play an active role in advancing meaningful solutions to protect both people and the planet. Learn more online at: MULTIMEDIA: LOGO link for media: NEWS SOURCE: California Safe Schools Keywords: Environment and Ecology, Environmental Health, California Safe Schools, Toxic Crusaders Program, Valencia High School, Rosemead High School, Bassett High School, clean air, water, and soil, LOS ANGELES, Calif. This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (California Safe Schools) who is solely responsibile for its accuracy, by Send2Press® Newswire. Information is believed accurate but not guaranteed. Story ID: S2P127053 APNF0325A To view the original version, visit: © 2025 Send2Press® Newswire, a press release distribution service, Calif., USA. RIGHTS GRANTED FOR REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART BY ANY LEGITIMATE MEDIA OUTLET - SUCH AS NEWSPAPER, BROADCAST OR TRADE PERIODICAL. MAY NOT BE USED ON ANY NON-MEDIA WEBSITE PROMOTING PR OR MARKETING SERVICES OR CONTENT DEVELOPMENT. Disclaimer: This press release content was not created by nor issued by the Associated Press (AP). Content below is unrelated to this news story.
Associated Press
21-04-2025
- General
- Associated Press
California Safe Schools Honors 2025 Earth Day Heroes and Celebrates 27th Anniversary
- ince its founding, CSS has remained steadfast in its mission to safeguard students, teachers, staff, and surrounding neighborhoods from exposure to toxic chemicals and environmental harm - LOS ANGELES, Calif., April 21, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — In celebration of Earth Day 2025, California Safe Schools (CSS) is proud to recognize eight remarkable individuals whose unwavering dedication to protecting human health, inspiring youth leadership, and safeguarding the environment exemplifies the true spirit of environmental stewardship. 'This year's honorees embody the power of commitment, compassion, and community action,' said Robina Suwol, Founder and Executive Director of California Safe Schools. 'Their leadership and tireless work are shaping a healthier future for all of us — and we're honored to celebrate their achievements.' This Spring also marks the 27th anniversary of California Safe Schools (CSS), a pioneering force in children's environmental health. Since its founding, CSS has remained steadfast in its mission to safeguard students, teachers, staff, and surrounding neighborhoods from exposure to toxic chemicals and environmental harm. CSS continues to work closely with frontline communities and regulatory agencies to address critical threats to clean air, safe water, and healthy soil. 'On this Earth Day and 27th anniversary of the California Safe Schools, I applaud the organization for their continued commitment to empowering our youth and communities. Their dedication continues to play a vital role in ensuring we all uplift environmental justice,' said Los Angeles County Chair Pro Tem and Supervisor to the First District, Hilda L. Solis. CSS first earned national recognition for leading the development and adoption of the Los Angeles Unified School District's groundbreaking Integrated Pest Management Policy — the most stringent pesticide safety policy for K-12 schools in the United States. The Integrated Pest Management Policy was the first to formally adopt both the 'Precautionary Principle' and 'Right to Know,' setting a gold standard for transparency and public health protections. This landmark achievement not only influenced California's Healthy Schools Act but also helped guide school districts nationwide to develop their own Integrated Pest Management policies. Today, Los Angeles Unified School District's policy remains a model for communities worldwide striving to protect children and vulnerable populations from harmful chemical exposure. CALIFORNIA SAFE SCHOOLS PROUDLY HONORS THE FOLLOWING 2025 EARTH DAY HEROES: LESLIE MENJIVAR, President, Los Angeles Tenth District Parent Teacher Student Association Honored for empowering students and families through education and advocacy, including championing student leadership within the Parent Teacher Student Association and strengthening community ties through initiatives like the White Middle School garden and service with the Salvation Army. Her theme, Inspire to Make a Difference, reflects her deep commitment to creating opportunities for young people to thrive both in and beyond the classroom. MARTIN SCHLAGETER, Special Assistant to the General Manager, Metropolitan Water District of Southern California Celebrated for more than 35 years of leadership in public service, nonprofit advocacy, and environmental policy — including the development of Metropolitan Water District's new climate adaptation strategy to safeguard water supplies for millions of Southern Californians. His past roles include key positions at StreetsLA, the Los Angeles City Council District 14, and environmental groups like the Coalition for Clean Air, Sierra Club, and Friends of the Los Angeles River. MICHAEL HENRY HAYDEN, Co-Founder and President, Lincoln Heights Community Coalition Recognized for his grassroots environmental advocacy in Lincoln Heights, where his research helped uncover a hidden toxic dumping site and sparked an ongoing cleanup to protect residents. His work also helped block a diesel-heavy warehouse project near homes and Hillside Elementary, preventing added pollution in one of Los Angeles' most impacted neighborhoods. RYAN PARENT, Attorney and Member, Los Angeles Unified School District Integrated Pest Management Committee Recognized for his commitment as both a father of three Los Angeles Unified School District students and a dedicated volunteer with his local Parent Teacher Association and the Integrated Pest Management Committee where he helps ensure that the district's pest management practices comply with federal and state regulations, thereby reducing risks to students, staff, and the environment. SUSIE DE SANTIAGO, President, Cudahy Youth Foundation and Founding Member, Cudahy Alliance for Justice Commended for her tireless advocacy on behalf of youth and families in the City of Cudahy. From helping stop the construction of a school on a contaminated site to supporting local schools in creating green spaces, she continues to be an inspiration to others to take action for healthier communities. WILLIAM ROSS, Health Advocate, California State Parent Teacher Association Applauded for over a decade of advocacy for children through the Los Angeles Unified School District's Parent Teacher Association, Bond Oversight Committee, and as a longtime supporter of the Integrated Pest Management Committee. As a Health Advocate for the California State Parent Teacher Association, Bill continues to champion the implementation of health laws and practices that protect students and school communities across the state. PERLA ELBAZ, Youth Leadership Initiative for Greener Communities Highlighted for her role in forming the Youth Leadership Initiative for Greener Communities, a student-led effort dedicated to bringing the beauty and benefits of wild spaces into areas of the city where they are lacking. The group's ambitious goal is to plant 1,000 new trees to combat pollution and promote community well-being. Now a sophomore at Louisville High School, Perla hopes to pursue a future in international peace and conflict resolution, with a focus on the environmental roots of global challenges. MARTINO JESUS TORRES, Gardener and Animal Lover A fourth grader at Raymond Case Elementary in Sacramento, Martino is already an avid gardener and animal lover. He helps tend the family garden, harvests crops like corn, chili, and tomatoes, and cares for his pets, including collecting eggs from hens, feeding rabbits, and grooming his three dogs. His love for nature and animals celebrates the essence of Earth Day — inspiring others to join in caring for our planet. 'On behalf of Council District 4, we would like to thank California Safe Schools for 27 years of working to promote environmental health and protect children across the state,' said Los Angeles City Councilmember Nithya Raman. 'By bringing together activists, parents, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies, CSS has been a vital watchdog and advocate, ensuring our children have access to safe and healthy learning environments.' Each honoree was presented with a specially designed award created by acclaimed artist Michael Bruza and engraved by Anderson Trophy — a lasting symbol of gratitude for their inspiring contributions. For more information about California Safe Schools and its ongoing work, visit: MEDIA ONLY CONTACT: Robina Suwol Executive Director California Safe Schools 818.785.5515 [email protected] MULTIMEDIA: LOGO link for media: NEWS SOURCE: California Safe Schools Keywords: Environment and Ecology, California Safe Schools, Earth Day Heroes, Earth Day, health, safety, children, schools, environment, LOS ANGELES, Calif. This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (California Safe Schools) who is solely responsibile for its accuracy, by Send2Press® Newswire. Information is believed accurate but not guaranteed. Story ID: S2P125605 APNF0325A To view the original version, visit: © 2025 Send2Press® Newswire, a press release distribution service, Calif., USA. RIGHTS GRANTED FOR REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART BY ANY LEGITIMATE MEDIA OUTLET - SUCH AS NEWSPAPER, BROADCAST OR TRADE PERIODICAL. MAY NOT BE USED ON ANY NON-MEDIA WEBSITE PROMOTING PR OR MARKETING SERVICES OR CONTENT DEVELOPMENT. Disclaimer: This press release content was not created by nor issued by the Associated Press (AP). Content below is unrelated to this news story.
