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THE STUDENT CLIMATE ACTION COUNCIL (SCAC)

The Student Climate Action Council (SCAC)

The Student Climate Action Council (SCAC) is a council of students working with MCPS to represent clusters of the county to advance sustainability initiatives and create a greener school system by holding MCPS accountable for their climate goals.

About The Student Climate Action Council (SCAC)

OUR VISION is to create an entirely Green school system, increase the number of innovative sustainability projects, and allow the creative students of MCPS to be given a chance to enact their ideas, for a better, and safer environment.

OUR MISSION is to help foster innovative sustainability projects created by the students of MCPS. Students who make up the council represent different clusters throughout MCPS giving a better perspective on the problem of sustainability and allowing proper insight into what’s happening in these clusters. SCAC works to ensure that MCPS is fully represented, and has an opportunity to fund student ideas. This council will review and discuss grant applications to ensure our funding goes towards innovative ideas that help tackle climate change effectively in a local community.

Meet the Council EXECUTIVE BOARD

Mohammad Taariq Ashkar Ali
Hello, my name is Mohammad (he/him). I'm a junior at Poolesville High School and I represent the North area of MCPS. I look forward to advancing the Green School's Initiative and engaging schools and students in the SCAC's work!
Josie Kim
My name is Josie Kim and my pronouns are she/her. I'm in 11th grade and I go to Richard Montgomery High school. I represent the North Central area and I'm looking forward to exploring sustainable alternatives to current MCPS practices.
Brendyn Iliff
Hey! My name is Brendyn Iliff (he/him), I’m a senior at Rockville High School and I will be representing the Northwest region. Outside of School, My hobbies are Ice hockey, Rock climbing, and backpacking. This year I’m looking forward to further promoting sustainability to all the students and faculty of MCPS.
Nikhita Bhatt
Nikhita Bhatt (any pronouns) is a senior at Montgomery Blair High School, representing the Southeast region. She's been involved with environmental advocacy since 8th grade, and this is her second year on the SCAC. Outside of sustainability she also advocates for a myriad of other issues including reproductive justice and equitable technology. She also loves playing and listening to music. This year, Nikhita is excited to work on a MoCo Climate Action Plan and increase energy efficiency in our schools!
Elizabeth Daly
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Daly, and I am a senior at Walt Whitman High School. I represent the Southwest cluster and am excited to create a more sustainable county with the SCAC this year. I am looking forward to supporting innovative student projects with our Ambassador program and connecting with students of all ages around the county.
Renu Vijayaraj
Hi, I'm Renu Vijayaraj! My pronouns are she/her, and I'm a freshman from Walter Johnson High School. I represent the South-Central cluster of MoCo. I'm passionate about expanding the Green School program and awareness, and taking immediate direct action on climate issues in a way that inspires and empowers my peers. Together, we can drive innovative climate solutions that benefit our community and beyond. I'm excited to work with students from diverse backgrounds to create a more sustainable and equitable future.
Celestia Krubally
Hi! My name is Celestia Krubally(she/her), and I am a senior at Rockville High school. I am an at-large council member, and I am excited to work within the community and lead initiatives with MCPS youth to increase awareness about sustainability, and what we can do to reduce the negative impacts of climate change. I will work to increase outreach and lead green initiatives, to inspire young minds throughout our county to get involved!
Quinley Borden
Hi, I’m Quinley (he/him) and I’m an At-Large Councilmember. I’m currently a sophomore at Richard Montgomery HS. I’m really looking forward to developing a climate action plan for MCPS and continuing our student grants program this year.
SCAC Sponsors
SCAC Sponsors Dr. Auggie Kang, Ms. Lynne Harris, Ms. Christy Rice, and Ms. Rylinn Sorini (Left to Right)

Get Involved

Become an SCAC Ambassadors

Become an Ambassador

Want to get involved at the county-level to advocate for the environment?

GOOD NEWS! As a Climate Ambassador, you can represent your school within the SCAC. With the Council’s support, you will be able to assist sustainability projects at your school and voice your concerns about the environment to create real change.

Apply TODAY!

SCAC Grants

Check Out our Artificial Turfs Report

Interested in joining the Student Climate Action Council to fight for Natural Grass Turfs?

Then, read our Artificial Turfs Report!

Learn More