Carmel Unified School District (CUSD) stretches across one of the most stunning natural areas of the planet. The regional district includes a sparsely populated rugged stretch of California’s coast, bordered by sheer mountains, canyons and waterfalls to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Whales, elephant seals, dolphins and otters swim past River Elementary School in Carmel, from which the beach is visible. California condors fly above ancient redwood forests at Captain Cooper Elementary School in Big Sur.

CUSD’s mission holds responsibility for the environment as a core belief. We are committed to protecting our shared precious resources and deepening student commitment to preserve the beautiful area we call home. The regional district includes many miles of ranches, more than 100 vineyards, and farms that produce much of the country’s salad, vegetables and strawberries. Every school in CUSD has an educational garden; and the elementary schools have a dedicated teacher to connect student learning to experiences in the garden. Middle school students enrich their various environmental science courses at The Habitat, an environmental education nature center that, in conjunction with MEarth (the Habitat's nonprofit organization), offers science, environmental education, and sustainability programming. The Carmel High School Environmental Club is the first local Surfrider chapter, leading regular waste reduction and beach cleanup initiatives. Both Carmel high schools partner with local land preserves to raise funds and restore habitats.