Positive Persistance: Purposeful Action with Young Learners (featuring Heather Semon and Daniel Shrewsbury)

In this episode, we sit down with Heather Semon and Daniel Shrewsbury from the International School of Paris to explore how sustainability, service learning, and student voice can transform school culture. Heather and Daniel share their journeys into international education and describe how their shared passion for environmental stewardship led to the growth of the “Action Cubs,” a student-led initiative empowering young learners to take meaningful action around issues they care about most. From composting systems and urban gardening to food systems education and global sustainability conferences like ChangeNOW, this conversation is filled with practical ideas, inspiring stories, and thoughtful reflections for educators looking to create purposeful, student-centered learning experiences. Together, we discuss: Building student agency through sustainability and service learning Creating systems that support meaningful student action The power of collaboration and finding aligned partners Urban gardening and food systems education in schools Bringing real-world sustainability connections into the classroom How schools can start small and grow authentic sustainability initiatives over time Check out some of Heather and Daniel's favorite resources here: Compass Education Climate Fresk Eco-Schools ChangeNOW Connect with us at edvolution.services@gmail.com to share ideas, feedback, or topics you’d like explored in future episodes.