Climate Adaptation and Resilience at California’s K-12 Schools: Actions and Recommendations for State and District Leadership

As California’s climate-related disasters grow in frequency and intensity, school communities are increasingly impacted by extreme heat, wildfires, flooding, and other disruptions that threaten student well-being, learning, and school infrastructure. This policy brief outlines the urgent need for state and local leaders to act quickly to protect schools and students from climate risks. Highlighting the impacts of extreme heat, wildfire smoke, storms, and flooding, the brief calls for immediate investment in resilient infrastructure, planning, and interagency coordination. It offers actionable recommendations for state and district leaders to ensure that schools remain safe, operational, and conducive to learning amidst climate-related disasters.