William R. Sullivan Elementary School is making some eco-friendly changes this year, according to an article by Steven Falkenhagen in the Arizona Republic. With new solar panels and power strips that shut off when not in use, school administrators hope to conserve energy, save cash and teach students the benefits of being green.
PHOENIX, Ariz. -- In the computer lab at William R. Sullivan Elementary School, Joy Louis reached under a bank of computers to turn on a "smart" power strip that will shut off electricity when the desktops aren't in use.
In another classroom, Doug Northway installed fluorescent tubes designed to use up to 30 percent less energy than those he was replacing.
The roof sports new solar panels, intended to save the school thousands of dollars and reduce carbon emissions.
In the courtyard below, students used crayons and markers to create drawings with their visions of energy sustainability.
Last week, the non-profit environmental-awareness group Earth Day Network, supported by volunteers from the University of Phoenix, put the finishing touches on a green makeover at the school in southwest Phoenix.
The event was part of the Washington, D.C.-based network's Green Schools Campaign, which has a goal of making all U.S. schools more sustainable.
"Going green is taking a holistic approach to education because education in the 21st century has to adopt sustainability measures," said Sean S. Miller, director of education for Earth Day Network, who helped install the new lighting.
"It's not just about saving emissions. We're saving the school money, and we're also teaching about it."
The University of Phoenix Foundation made the makeover possible through a $50,000 grant to Earth Day Network, which put out word that it was looking to green a school in the Valley.
Part of the money went toward nine solar panels that Miller said would save the school $120,000 on utilities and reduce carbon emissions by 166,000 pounds over the 30 years the panels will be under warranty.
New landscaping at the school's entrance features desert plants and gravel instead of grass.
For the next year, Valley environmental consultant and artist Joan Baron will help the school integrate energy sustainability into the curriculum.
For the complete story, visit The Arizona Republic.
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