In March of 2008 the Department of Children Youth and their Families (DCYF) convened a group of community-based organizations working within the fields of environment and youth empowerment along with SFUSD representatives to strategize about the development of a city-wide environmental service learning program. The four-month strategic planning process culminated in the Environmental Service Learning Initiative, or more affectionately known ESLI.

Birthed alongside SFUSD’s new strategic plan BEYOND THE TALK: TAKING ACTION to EDUCATE EVERYCHILD NOW which places equity, student achievement and accountability at the forefront of SFUSD education and within the urging context of global climate change, ESLI arrived at the ambitious goal of launching implementation in seven public high schools representing a cross section of the city – Burton, Mission, Galileo, Lowell, Balboa, Washington and Lincoln High Schools. With the goals of student empowerment and participation, teacher support and professional development, civic engagement, and community impact, ESLI began implementation with the Fall 2008 school year.