Hartford, CT— Yesterday the Capitol lobby was bustling with activity as over 200 students, teachers, legislators and supporters gathered to vote for their favorite student climate poster.
“Connecticut is proud to be a leader in climate education, and initiatives like the climate coalition poster contest show what’s possible when students are empowered to learn, create, and engage. These young people are not only understanding the challenges we face, they’re helping to shape creative solutions. Their voices are critical to building a cleaner, more sustainable future for our state,” said Governor Ned Lamont.
In 2022, Connecticut became one of the first states to include Climate Change Studies (Grades 5–12) as part of its science curriculum in public schools. In celebration, the Connecticut Coalition for Climate Action started the student climate poster contest, where students from around the state are invited to create a poster that highlights the importance of protecting the environment and the role each of us plays in reducing climate change.
“As a mom, earth scientist, and DEEP’s Director of Climate Planning, it was incredibly encouraging to see these students using climate science to inform climate solutions. At DEEP, Earth Day is every day and we need all of our residents to understand how climate change affects them and what they and their government can do about it. I applaud all of the students for their hard work on these posters” said Dr. Rebecca French, the Director of Climate Planning at the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)
The winners were announced at a celebration in the Capitol lobby on Earth Day. Over 200 supporters and over 20 legislators came to view the posters, vote for their favorites, and cheer for the students.
Attendees of the event voted for 3 finalists, and the winners were announced by Representatives John-Michael Parker, Pat Callahan, Hector Arzeno, Aundre Bumgardner, and Tina Courpas.
“It was incredibly inspiring to see the thought and creativity students brought to this year’s climate poster contest. These young people aren’t just learning about climate change, they’re thinking critically about solutions and how to communicate them. As Chair of the Environment Committee, I’m proud to be part of an initiative that elevates student voices and helps prepare the next generation of environmental leaders,” said Representative John Michael Parker.
In first place was Kyle J., age 11 from Greenwich.
In second place was Adele M., age 14 from Simsbury.
And in third place was Victoria W., age 11 from Fairfield.
Students, parents, and teachers alike felt that the poster contest was an inspiring way to empower future climate leaders.
“This contest turns learning into action. My students aren’t just studying climate change, they’re expressing their ideas, sharing solutions, and seeing their work recognized at the Capitol. Experiences like this show them that their voices belong in the conversation about our future,” said Tim Stankye, 8th Grade Science- Lion Team at Long River Middle School
“My daughter had a great time with the poster contest; it really got her thinking about climate change in a creative way. It was cool to see her so excited and proud of what she made. Opportunities like this make a big difference in getting kids involved and feeling like their ideas matter,” said Matt Morgan-father of second place winner Adele, Simsbury, CT.
The CT Coalition for Climate Action comprises environmental advocates, health experts, labor and municipal representatives, and others advocating for climate action in Connecticut. Formed in 2023, the Coalition’s central demand is that Connecticut keep its promise to cut climate pollution and protect our future. Members of the coalition’s steering committee are Save the Sound, American College of Physicians – CT Chapter, ConnPIRG, Conservation Law Foundation, CT Health Professionals for Climate Action, CT League of Conservation Voters, Environment Connecticut, Interreligious Eco-Justice Network, Mitchell Environmental Health Associates, People’s Action for Clean Energy, Sierra Club CT, and the Nature Conservancy in CT. More information at www.climateactionct.org
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