The most important thing we can do is inspire young minds and to advance the kind of science, math and technology education that will help youngsters take us to the next phase of space travel.
John Glenn, American Astronaut
Recently, Exact Solar was invited to give a hands-on demonstration on how solar power works and its importance to society both today and in the future. While powering the neighboring home is perhaps not quite the same as space travel, it’s reasonable to think decarbonizing the world’s energy infrastructure is our next moon shot.
And inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, planners and thinkers is an important step on the path to a 100% clean energy future. For over a decade, STEM Education – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics – has been a national priority in K-12 classwork and beyond. While not an official STEM program, the presentation gave us the ability to make the connections between education, community, and work, which are primary aims of STEM programs overall.
On the invitation of New Jersey’s Riverside Elementary Principal Ebony Lattimer, Exact Solar’s Michael Bloom and team took time out from an ongoing residential solar energy installation next door to the school. The fourth grade students were able to see and touch the panels and understand how they convert sunlight to energy by witnessing sparks and the lighting of bulbs.
Like most children their age, the group was initially excited just to be out of class and walking across the field to the demonstration. Soon, however, they were fully engaged and able to make the connections to all they have learned about the climate and awareness of carbon footprints.
According to Doug Edwards, President of Exact Solar:
It’s encouraging to see how fascinated and engaged fourth graders are in what we do every day as a part of the clean energy revolution. There was not a bored face in the crowd. Their questions and full attention inspired us as much as we were hoping to inspire them!
The Riverside Elementary students expressed their thanks to the Exact Solar team for the fun filled education.
Read more about it at Princeton, NJ’s, Town Topics local newsletter.