Santa Barbara Students Win $10K for Campus Innovation

When Johnny Duffy watched his soccer teammates struggle to afford equipment and fees, he didn't just feel bad. He created a solution, launching a project to collect, clean, and distribute donated sports gear to students who need it.

Johnny was one of dozens of Santa Barbara high school students who celebrated their student-led projects at the Santa Barbara Public Library on March 3rd. The Santa Barbara Education Foundation awarded nearly $10,000 through its Student Grants program, now in its third year, to help teens tackle real problems on their campuses.

The projects ranged from practical to creative, each addressing a specific need students identified themselves. Mel Starks of San Marcos High School turned ordinary trash cans into art displays featuring student work, making her entire campus more beautiful. Johanna Gomez Lopez organized family events and created posters through her school's MEChA Club, giving Latinx students a welcoming space to connect.

"These students are the change they want to see in their schools," said Katie Szopa, the foundation's Programs Director. The students gathered around their display boards, excitedly explaining their projects to parents, teachers, and fellow students who stopped by to learn more.

Board Member Isis Castañeda encouraged the teens to think even bigger. "Own your campus and own your community," she told them, emphasizing how their projects increase equity, joy, and accessibility in their schools.

The Ripple Effect

The evening represented more than just celebrating completed projects. Castañeda invited students to apply for next year's Student Grants Committee, where they'll review applications and help decide which projects get funded. Several students approached her after the presentations to learn more about stepping into these leadership roles.

The shift matters because it puts decision-making power directly in students' hands. "Your voices matter," Castañeda reminded them. "I'm not in high school anymore. You are!"

Parents snapped photos of their teens holding certificates in front of their project posters, capturing a moment that represents something larger. The Santa Barbara Education Foundation supports almost 12,000 students across the district, but these grants do something special: they trust students to identify problems and create solutions themselves.

Applications for next year's grants are already on students' minds as they plan new ways to improve their school communities.