New wind turbine at Kent Career Tech Center expected to become teaching tool
Original Article posted October 11, 2010 at www.mlive.com
GRAND RAPIDS -- A new wind turbine installed Monday at Kent Career Tech Center is geared toward helping students prepare for Michigan's growing renewable energy sector, said school administrators.
The small 2.4 kilowatt turbine, paid for by part of a $100,000 grant from Energy Works Michigan and installed by Windemuller Electric, was turned on during a press conference at the center, 1655 E. Beltline Ave. NE.
The grant, awarded to Kent Intermediate School District in June, also paid for roof solar panels at the center, and a solar pavilion at the Kent Education Center. A television connected to the equipment will be placed in a common area so students will be able to use the data in class.
New programs will start next school year to accompany the turbine and solar panels, including one on alternative energy and another on sustainability. The center's existing programs -- including automotive technology, aviation maintenance technology, construction and engineering -- will incorporate the data into their instruction, or place a focus on "green" practices.
2.4 kW wind turbine.
"We make adjustments here to align the work students do with the work of the future," said Kevin Konarska, the district's superintendent.
In the new one-year alternative energy program, students will learn about biofuels, energy efficiency and environmental policy. The new sustainability program will teach students about land use, recycling and resource conservation. The school's construction program is also now partnering with Habitat for Humanity to allow students to learn about energy-efficient housing and put what they learn into practice by rebuilding a home.
The most important change is allowing the center's programs to collaborate, said Jarrad Grandy, assistant director of regional Career Technical Education programs for the center.
"It's different from what you usually find in teaching," he said. "We prepare students for collaboration and teamwork."
10 kW solar PV array on roof.
Emile Lauzzana stands in front of the 2 kW solar pavilion.
By: Kaitlin Shawgo
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