VEEN is excited to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of this year's Youth Climate Leaders Academy (YCLA) participants! Hosted by our organizational member, the Vermont Energy Education Program, YCLA empowers high school students across Vermont and New Hampshire to design and implement projects that address real-world climate challenges in their schools and communities.

Throughout the year, student teams identified climate-related issues they care about, developed solutions, collaborated with peers and mentors, and turned their ideas into meaningful action. Their creativity, leadership, and commitment to building a more sustainable future are truly inspiring.

We encourage you to explore this year's student projects and celebrate their achievements in the latest YCLA newsletter:

Interested in getting involved? YCLA is open to students in grades 9–12 and provides educators and youth with the resources, mentorship, and support needed to develop impactful climate action projects. The 2026 Kick-Off Retreat will take place December 4–5, 2026, with registration opening this September.

Learn more about the Youth Climate Leaders Academy and how to participate at: