Project VOICE culminated in the Community Share event on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at Fort Vancouver High School, where students presented their ideas and discoveries about what makes a healthy, vibrant community.

Students projects were on display for others to explore

Powered by ClimeTime, Project VOICE is a student-led initiative that explores real-world issues through science and environmental awareness. The driving question behind the project is: What does it mean to live in a healthy and vibrant community?

Throughout the project, students from four ESD 112 school districts – Vancouver, Evergreen, Camas, and Ridgefield – explored that question by identifying local challenges, collecting and analyzing data, forming evidence-based arguments or proposing solutions, and receiving peer feedback. Their hard work and creativity were then showcased through thoughtful displays at the culminating event.

Attendees, including families, teachers, and community members, engaged with student projects ranging from food waste in schools to Columbia River pollution to the benefits of native plants and outdoor learning spaces. Each display reflected months of research, collaboration, and critical thinking, highlighting the power of student voice in addressing community needs.

“Project VOICE has to do with defining what a vibrant and healthy community is, and I believe that’s truly what each and every high schooler is seeking in their high school experience,” shared Carlin Washington, a science teacher at Camas High School. “They’re trying to find connections with people that they feel celebrated with, accepted by, and comfortable with.”

Monique Gray Smith delivers inspiring keynote

Keynote Speaker Inspires Students to Nurture Their Dreams

The event also featured keynote speaker Monique Gray Smith, award-winning author of Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults. Known for her powerful storytelling that weaves together indigenous wisdom with scientific knowledge, Smith shared insights about the teachings of plants. She reminded audience members that, like plants, people need nurturing, sun, and water in order to thrive, and encouraged students to nurture their dreams to make a positive impact.

“We’ve all come to make a difference in our own unique way,” she shared.

Following her address, Smith met with attendees during a book signing. Each project participant received a copy of Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults in recognition of their work.

Community Connections

Community partners also hosted booths at the event, offering opportunities for participants to connect with local environmental efforts. Vendors included:

Sponsors for the event included Lower Columbia Nature Network, ELSO, and Canopy Collective. Funding was provided by ClimeTime, a statewide initiative that provides climate education professional development to educators across Washington. Learn more at www.climetime.org.