Cuero teachers learn about solar energy so they can incorporate it into their schools' curriculum.

Texas Solar for Schools, taught in 31 school districts in 2005, takes solar energy into the classroom for lessons in math, science and the future of renewable energy. The award-winning program provides schools with one-kilowatt photovoltaic electric and data acquisition systems, a state-approved curriculum and teacher workshops.

The Texas State Energy Conservation Office (SECO) supplies the curriculum and grants to help pay for the solar power systems.

“We’ve had overwhelming feedback from teachers of science and math,” SECO program manager Pam Groce said. “They’re our solar champions.”

With the help of a $100,000 SECO grant in 2005, LCRA and 10 of its wholesale power customers sponsored Solar for Schools in Central Texas communities. LCRA is working with its customers and SECO to add 15 schools this year. The program is one way LCRA works with communities and customers to protect natural resources and address long-term needs.

Ti Mougne, LCRA energy services program coordinator, leads three-hour workshops for teachers to become familiar with the system and brainstorm about how it can be used in the classroom.

“Energy is kind of an abstract concept, so the curriculum offers different ways to perceive and interpret data,” Mougne said. “Teachers love having a hands-on resource and teaching tool.”

Local power providers support the program enthusiastically.

“I think it will make the students better citizens because they’re a little more conscious of the energy choices out there,” Smithville City Manager Tex Middlebrook said.

Renewable energy offers hope for the future production of power that has minimal impact on the environment, said Stephen Williams, member services and systems safety advisor for Bandera Electric Cooperative (BEC). BEC sponsors the Solar for Schools program taught at the rural Utopia school district.

“The students’ ability to work with the data and technology in the classroom is important to all of us,” Williams said. “It broadens the community’s perspective and shows that what happens in a small town like Utopia matters. We’re all in it together.”

Understanding the technology and its value may encourage students to support and refine the use of solar energy as adults, Mougne said.

“It’s like planting a seed and watching it grow,” Mougne said.

For more information about participating in Solar for Schools, contact Mougne at 1-800-776-5272, Ext. 7950.