Environmental literacy grows when students have opportunities to investigate real-world environmental questions, connect local observations to global systems, and share their learning with others. Sant Bani School in Sanbornton is providing a powerful example of this work through a project that combines atmospheric science, technology, and place-based learning.

With support from a Youth Learning as Citizen Environmental Scientists (YLACES) grant, sixth-grade students will conduct atmospheric research focused on the unique weather and climate conditions of New Hampshire’s mountains. YLACES helps educators remove barriers to student-led environmental research by providing access to scientific equipment and supporting the collection and sharing of environmental data. Through this project, students will compare data collected from local peaks such as Mount Kearsarge and Mount Washington with atmospheric conditions found on some of the world’s highest mountains, including Mount Everest.

The project helps students explore big questions about weather, climate, and air quality by connecting local observations to global environmental systems. Using world maps and real-time air quality data, students will investigate how atmospheric conditions vary across different regions and elevations while developing skills in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and critical thinking.

The purchase of PocketLab Air sensors also expands access to environmental learning. Rather than relying on borrowed equipment, students will have dedicated access to the technology throughout the project, allowing them to work collaboratively in small groups and engage more deeply in the research process. Beyond the sixth-grade project, the sensors will become a lasting resource available to all 120 students at Sant Bani School for future science and geography investigations.

One of the most exciting aspects of the project is its connection to the broader community. Students will synthesize their research into posters and interactive displays that will be featured at the Mount Washington Observatory Museum, where more than 100,000 visitors explore weather and climate science each year. By sharing their findings with a public audience, students will not only deepen their own understanding but also contribute to environmental education for visitors from across New Hampshire and beyond.

By asking questions such as “Why do these data points matter?” students will explore the connections between human activities, air quality, weather patterns, and climate systems. Through hands-on investigation and public engagement, they are developing the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to become informed environmental stewards and changemakers.

The project also reflects a growing movement to engage youth as citizen scientists, empowering students to collect, analyze, and share environmental data that contributes to broader public understanding.

This project reflects the vision of the New Hampshire Environmental Literacy Plan by combining place-based learning, scientific investigation, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. It demonstrates how schools can help students connect local experiences to global environmental challenges while empowering them to share their learning with others.

NH Environmental Literacy Plan Connections

Goal 1: Expand Access to Environmental Learning Across All Ages and Settings

  • Hands-on atmospheric science investigations using PocketLab Air sensors
  • Increased access to environmental monitoring technology for all students at Sant Bani School
  • Learning opportunities that connect classroom instruction with real-world environmental data

Goal 2: Empower Youth and Communities as Environmental Stewards and Changemakers

  • Student-led scientific research focused on air quality, weather, and climate
  • Participation in authentic environmental research and public sharing of scientific findings
  • Development of skills in inquiry, analysis, problem-solving, and environmental decision-making

Goal 4: Strengthen Community Connections to Place Through Environmental Learning

  • Exploration of New Hampshire’s unique mountain environments, including Mount Washington
  • Place-based learning that connects local landscapes to global environmental systems
  • Public exhibits that help visitors better understand the environmental significance of New Hampshire’s mountains

Thank you to Sant Bani School for demonstrating what environmental literacy in action looks like through innovative, student-driven environmental research and community engagement.

Learn more about the New Hampshire Environmental Literacy Plan and explore ways your organization can support environmental literacy in your community:

New Hampshire Environmental Literacy Plan

Want to join the growing network of organizations supporting environmental literacy in New Hampshire?

We are still accepting letters of support for the NH Environmental Literacy Plan and would love to highlight your organization’s work in a future NH Environmental Literacy in Action feature. To submit a letter of support, share your story, or learn more about getting involved, contact info@nhee.org.

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