Climate Action

FRI-FS-16: Seeing Double: Two Major Public School Greening Projects and Two Funding Approaches

Friday, September 18, 2026

12:00 PM - 5:00 PM PT

Location: Los Angeles Convention Center, Field Session Departure Area (South Lobby)

3.00 PDH, LA CES/HSW
Ticket Price: $105 per person

Field Session Leader(s)

Robin Mark, PLA (she/her/hers)

Director of Partnerships
SALT Landscape Architects
Los Angeles, CA
Everett S. Carter, PLA (he/him/his)

Associate
SALT Landscape Architects
Los Angeles, CA

Field Session Presenter(s)

BR

Brad Rumble, na

Elementary School Principal
Esperanza Elementary (LAUSD)
Los Angeles, CA
Tori Kjer, PLA

Executive Director
Los Angeles Neighborhood Land Trust
Los Angeles, CA
Julia E. Hawkinson, FAIA, LEED AP (she/her/hers)

Facilities Asset Development Director
Los Angeles Unified School District
Los Angeles, California
Robin W. Carmichael, ASLA

Landscape Architect
Pamela Burton & Company
SANTA MONICA, CA

Los Angeles Unified School District is undertaking greening efforts across more than 400 elementary school campuses, and funding for these projects varies. Visit two large greening efforts - one bond-funded and one through non-profit fund-raising. Both elementary schools demonstrate the partnerships and innovative strategies needed for climate and community resilience.

Includes transportation. Moderate walking.

Learning Outcomes:

Explore how designing nature-based play and learning environments is a vital tool for community climate-resilience strategies.
Discover how non-profits are a critical partner with school districts in developing healthy environments for children.
Discuss challenges and opportunities of school district wide greening initiatives to bring cooling environments to underserved communities.
Learn how linking curriculum with native habitat into school yards fosters children’s observation skills, sparks curiosity, and develops a respect for the natural world.