Captain Leland F. Norton Elementary School (Norton ES) in San Bernardino, California, exemplifies excellence in environmental stewardship and sustainability in a community facing significant socioeconomic and environmental challenges. Serving a student population that is nearly 100% economically disadvantaged, Norton ES stands out not for wealth, but for its innovative, hands-on STEM curriculum and its commitment to fostering environmentally literate, community-minded leaders from preschool through sixth grade. The school’s success is rooted in extensive collaboration among staff, students, families, and community partners, including the district’s Facilities Planning and Development Department and sustainability partner Cenergistic, as well as participation in programs such as the Whole-Earth Program. Through project-based learning, energy conservation initiatives, recycling, water-saving practices, and wellness- focused programs, Norton ES instills a culture of responsibility, health, and environmental awareness that extends beyond the classroom. By integrating sustainability into daily operations, student learning, and community engagement, Norton ES not only equips students with the knowledge and skills to protect and improve their environment but also ensures long- term, meaningful impact on the school and its surrounding community, serving as a model of resilience, collaboration, and enduring environmental stewardship.