Clarkston Community Schools energy-conservation efforts paid off with four Energy Star recognitions.
Principals from Bailey Lake, Clarkston, and Springfield Plains elementary schools, and Renaissance High School accepted the honors, saying it was the combined effort from the staff and students.
‘We feel pretty honored just to be among a few buildings from around the country,? said Dana Pennanen, Clarkston Elementary principal. ‘The kids are really good at what we can do to conserve energy.?
It is the second year all three elementaries were recognized, among 219 schools in Michigan earning the recognition since 2001.
‘It is nice to receive the recognition because our staff and students have been working really hard towards those measures,? said Bailey Lake Principal Glenn Gualtieri. ‘By the numbers of schools recognized, the measures are paying off.?
For the past five years, the district’s Energy Management Program conserved energy by reducing electricity and heating. A few examples are turning off lights, computers, and heat when not needed.
Since 2005, the four schools saved $385.709.12 in energy costs.
‘We have worked with students, staff, and with the community to go green, make people understand the importance of energy conservation, and help people incorporate green initiatives into everyday life,? said Energy Manager Gary Soggs.
? Wendi Reardon