Program Overview:
Agua University is an environmental justice program dedicated to empowering high school students in the Northeast San Fernando Valley. Through a specialized four-week curriculum, students explore the intersection of community advocacy and environmental science, focusing on the most vital resource in our region: water. This program is designed to transform students into local experts and leaders who can champion sustainability and equity in their own neighborhoods.
Through a blend of interactive workshops and outdoor exploration, you will dive deep into water science, sustainability, and community advocacy.
Key Program Features:
- Educational Workshops: Participate in daily indoor lectures and discussions. This year’s curriculum is centered around Water, Life, and History, Water Infrastructure and Its Impacts, Environmental Justice and Water Access, and The Future of Water: Innovation and Sustainability.
- Experiential Learning: Every Friday, swap the classroom for the field. Engage in hands-on excursions to local water resources and ecosystems.
- Community Impact: Earn community service hours for your participation in the program.
Congratulations to the 2025 Agua University graduates!
We’re incredibly proud of the 19 graduates of Agua University! This summer, they dove into hands-on learning through 3 Community Service Days and 7 site visits, gaining real-world insight into environmental issues and solutions.
The program concluded with powerful capstone presentations on topics like Blank Slate Transformation, Green Alleys, and Parks as Multi-Benefit Hubs—each one showcasing their creativity, leadership, and commitment to community change. We can’t wait to see how each of you continues to grow, lead, and create change in your communities and beyond.
Logistics & Eligibility:
- Eligibility: Current high school students living in the Northeast San Fernando Valley.
- Program Dates: June 15th – July 10th.
- Schedule: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
Expectations & Responsibilities:
To ensure a productive and respectful learning environment, all participants are expected to uphold the following standards:
- Commitment to Learning: Students must arrive on time and be ready to participate in all 20 sessions.
- Engagement: Active participation in both indoor lectures and outdoor activity days is essential for success in the program.
- Professional Conduct: Respect for instructors, peers, and the environment is required at all times. To maintain focus, cell phone usage is limited to designated breaks only.
- Mandatory Events: Selected students and their parent or legal guardian must attend a mandatory orientation session before the program start date, and the culminating event at the end of the program.
Admissions & Commitments:
- Educational Workshops: Participate in daily indoor lectures and discussions. This year’s curriculum is centered around Water, Life, and History, Water Infrastructure and Its Impacts, Environmental Justice and Water Access, and The Future of Water: Innovation and Sustainability.
- Experiential Learning: Every Friday, swap the classroom for the field. Engage in hands-on excursions to local water resources and ecosystems.
- Community Impact: Earn community service hours for your participation in the program.
Admissions & Commitments:
- Admission to Agua University is a competitive process. Interested students must submit an application for review.
Requirements for Selected Students:
- Full Attendance: Commitment to all 20 sessions is essential.
- Punctuality: Arriving on time and ready to engage.
- Orientation: A parent or legal guardian must attend a mandatory orientation (date and time disclosed upon selection).
Questions? Contact Us:
- Email: aguau@pacoimabeautiful.org
- Phone: 818-899-2454
Agua University applications open March 3
Applications for 2025 Agua University are currently closed. Applications will open March 3rd, 2026! Follow us on Instagram @pbyes_ to stay updated on our programs.
