Over the past year, teachers at the school have been implementing energy education lessons. Todd Erler, 5th grade teacher and Sakai Solar Energy Project Champion, had a Science Fair that focused on sustainable energy. As described by Todd: “We used the solar panel data, and some equipment bought for us by Puget Sound Energy to do inquiry-based projects about energy. The kids built and altered windmills to generate the most amount of energy. Some students investigated angle of light and amount of light as it affects solar energy output, some students used small solar panels to separate hydrogen from water to investigate the potential of hydrogen fuel.”

Also in Sakai’s 6th grade, science teacher Doug Olson has done a significant unit on energy, referencing the solar panels and solar energy. As described by Doug: “6th grade students explored how angle of sun rays affect the efficiency of solar panels in class and then went outside to discuss the set angle of the solar panels outside on our roof. Why was the set angle chosen and what season would it be most efficient? Students also learned how we measure power in Watts and what a Kilowatt/hr is. Students went on to use solar panels to break down water into Hydrogen and Oxygen and then use these gases in a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car to recombine the gases to make water and electricity that ran the cars down the hallway. In this way students could see how two different technologies can be used together to solve both transportation and energy production problems for the future.”

Todd also reports that they had a very successful school-wide “low power day” where computers remained off and many lights were turned off as well. Teachers used the experience to discuss energy issues and energy efficiency. And not least, some Sakai students took a leadership role in the Kitsap County Solar Tour held on October 3rd this year, and organized by Community Energy Solutions. Students described to tour visitors at the school the “photovoltaic effect” and the energy information displayed by the monitor at the school’s library.

With its physical proximity and the availability of on-site and on-line information, the Project will serve for many years to spur the interest in renewable energy for the students. Adding to the existing system now will serve to heighten that interest. In particular, it will send the message to students throughout Bainbridge Island that solar energy is an important upcoming primary energy source. It will encourage them to work towards incorporating more clean energy systems into their schools and throughout Bainbridge Island. We believe the affect this Project will have on the student’s learning, and their future decision making as adults, can only be positive.