Propel Charter Schools is bringing its creative thinking in education to the city of Pittsburgh this fall with the opening of the city's first charter school on the Northside.
Known for offering innovative educational opportunities, especially in art and technology, Propel is also partnering with Direct Energy for a Green Schools initiative through Alliance to Save Energy, teaching students how to save energy and electricity in the smallest but most effective of ways.
The Green Schools program got underway this month at Propel Braddock Hills Elementary and will expand to Propel's eight locations across greater Pittsburgh. The objective is a powerful one, educating and empowering students, administrators, teachers and custodial staff to work together to reduce the school's overall energy usage by five to 15 percent.
“The Green Schools program not only teaches young people about the importance of effective, efficient use of energy, but also demonstrates firsthand the significance that small, individual actions can have on their school, in their home and in the community,” said Cory Byzewski, vice president of U.S. North for Direct Energy.
The schools will become learning labs where students learn about energy efficiency, assess usage in their school and apply science, math and language arts to solve problems and make improvements. Simple awareness--like turning off lights that aren't needed--can save thousands of dollars says Byzewski.
Propel serves a diverse population of 2,500 children in eight schools including Homestead, Turtle Creek, Montour, McKeesport, Munhall, Braddock Hills (elementary and high school) as well as the Northside.
Check out more on Propel Schools and the Pittsburgh Hip Hop on LOCK Futuristicz Documentary on YouTube.
Writer: Deb Smit
Source: Cory Byzewski, Direct Energy