Exploring Alternative Energy for a Better Tomorrow!

Funded Oct 19, 2021

The 2021-2022 school year has presented itself with many challenges. From staff reassignments, school construction that has left us without the use of a school yard, full and partial classroom closures, it has been quite the roller coaster.

This was my first year being in charge of the school's Green Team - an initiative that gives students the power to improve sustainability in the school. Our first challenge was combatting the garbage issues that arose from having to eat breakfast and lunch in the classroom. The Green Team shared created posters, made announcements and made shared tips for reducing waste.

One of our science units was on Energy Conversions and students took a special interest in learning more about alternative forms of energy. They learned how solar and wind power can help reduce the strain on the electric grid but are now eager to learn more about how these systems actually work and how they can possibly be used within their homes and community.

For many of the reasons I mentioned earlier, our investigation into how these systems work has been delayed more than I would have anticipated. The students have read more about solar and wind power and will start building their Solar-Rovers and Wind Generators within the next couple of weeks. Now that school construction is finishing up, we'll be able to test them outside using sunlight and wind (instead of a light bulb and fan). The students are also excited that they will be reducing waste since both the solar rover and wind generator make use of empty soda bottles and cans.

We cannot wait to see how alternative forms of energy work and how they can make a difference in how we use energy.”

With gratitude,

Mrs. Pannunzio