Solar Schools

Meadville Area Senior High's newly installed solar photovoltaic system was the center of festivities during a "Solar Celebration" at the school on May 14th, 2003. The Commonwealth Community Energy Project, including Americorps/Bonner leader Ben Houghton '04, and the Crawford Central School District teamed up to develop and implement the project. Over 150 community members and students attended the hour-long solar event. Student activities included solar car races, logo contest results, musical performances, and cultural exhibits.

The students of Meadville participated in a variety of solar related projects and activities. The 9th and 10th grade Choir, led by Director Mary Lynne Peters, performed several songs for the crowd. Rob Radnich also showed off his singing skills with his rendition of "Why Does the Sun Shine?" with Kirill Meleshevich, a Meadville Middle School student, backing him on the guitar. Meadville teacher Kelly Gunn had her students create solar posters on the importance of the sun in different cultures. Decorations at the celebration included a collection of solar logos and designs from middle school art students. Eight teams of middle school students also constructed and raced solar cars.

With M.A.S.H. Principal George Deshner cutting the ribbon and throwing the switch, the photovoltaic system became the first on a school in Pennsylvania, outside the Philadelphia area. This cutting-edge technology will have the potential for many positive effects throughout the community. "The prominent placement of this system in our community is designed to generate greater public awareness of renewable energy options, and to serve as a valuable educational resource for students throughout the region," said Kathy Greely, Director of the Energy Project.