Students advocate for hydration stations at Washington Prep High School

Student advocates and speakers pose in front of the hydration station at Washington Prep High School.

The L.A. Trust was proud to be a part of the Water Station launch event at George Washington Preparatory High School this past December. The new water station effort was spearheaded by young leaders from the Washington Prep Student Advisory Board (SAB). These SAB water advocates, through a successful partnership with school administrators and facilities staff, raised awareness of the issue and the benefits of hydration stations to help the school identify and evaluate potential locations for hydration stations. The school had several water fountains throughout the campus, but some did not work properly, and some were deemed unsafe or inadequate during the pandemic. Recognizing the need, students took it upon themselves to advocate for hydration stations.

SAB advocate filling up the donated water bottle at the new hydration station.

The SAB members wanted to promote healthy habits and make a positive impact in their school community. They raised awareness about the importance of staying hydrated, and the environmental impact of disposable plastic water bottles. Hydration stations are water fountains that are specifically designed to fill reusable water bottles, and they can be a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to disposable plastic water bottles.

The L.A. Trust and the Metropolitan Water District donated water bottles for all 800 students at Washington Prep High School. Water-wise materials were distributed to students and campus staff by We Tap.

To commemorate the event and to recognize the students for being leaders and leaving their mark, Washington Prep Principal Tony Booker announced that the SAB member names will be listed on tiles to be placed above the hydration station in the lunch area.

Maryjane Puffer, Executive Director of The L.A. Trust said, “It is vital that we give students the tools to advocate for themselves, as they will be the innovators of tomorrow who can truly make a positive impact on the world.”

SAB advocates at Washington Prep High School.

Hydration is an essential part of maintaining good health and is especially important for the growing bodies of our young people. Investing in hydration stations at schools is an investment in our students' wellness and well-being. By advocating for this simple resource, these SAB members became empowered as young leaders who can make a difference both now and in their futures. The experience provided an opportunity to learn about the policy and political process, teamwork and leadership skills. Advocacy in high school is not limited to just hydration stations, it can also be used to create change and rally support for other improvements in our schools.

Speakers at the launch event included Patrice Marshall Mckenzie representing LAUSD Board Member District 1, Dr. George McKenna; Tony Booker, Washington Prep. Principal; Mark Hovatter, LAUSD Facilities Director; Kate Nutting, General Manager Southwest District Manager; Evelyn Wendell, Executive Director of WeTap; Joseph Chavez, Jr., Metropolitan Water District; and Marsha Ellis, Director of Programs at The L.A. Trust.