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Our children are growing up in a rapidly changing and uncertain world. When you donate to support this project, you will inspire students to learn in innovative ways. You’ll encourage them to embrace emerging opportunities in a high-growth industry. You’ll help to protect their environment and give them a bright future. Show your commitment to this community and…
Our Student Pop Can Drive raised $1,061!
Westwoods Elementary would like to install a 10KW solar array comprised of 32 ground-mounted solar panels. Installation is due to start in June 2020 when the school is under renovation. Coordinated installation of the solar panels at the same time as renovation as the school entrance reduces its cost.
Total cost of the solar installation will be $24,500. Join the other 35 donors who have already given to help us reach our goal!
“Our students will get to experience how technology and environmentally conscious design can be used to increase sustainability and promote the conservation of our planet’s natural resources.”
-Graydon Steele, Fifth Grade Teacher, Westwoods Elementary
Why do we need a solar array?
• The main purpose of our solar project is educational. Specifically, the panels will inspire learning about conservation, energy, the solar system, environment, math, data analysis, and responsible behavior.
• The renewable energy sector is a growth industry. Many Westwoods students could literally be working in the solar industry in a few years’ time.
• In terms of reducing carbon pollution, the use of these 32 solar panels will be equivalent to planting 4,956 trees!
• Our project is promoting community engagement. Involving students’ families in school projects enhances student learning.
• We hope that our project will inspire other organizations and homeowners to transition towards more sustainable clean energy sources.
“The solar panels provide students a tangible application of how energy moves through our environment. This is an important connection for students make, they realize electricity isn’t ‘magic’ and its production has an environmental impact. Understanding this impact can promote conservation and awareness.”
-Dan Tiesworth, Principal, Westwoods Elementary
Fundraising so far
• Parents, teachers and students are really getting behind this project and we’ve had several successful fundraisers including a student-run can drive.
• We’ve also been awarded grants from Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation and Traverse City Rotary Charities. Thank you!
• We’re very grateful to the local leaders and businesses that have already donated to our solar project.
Join These Community Leaders Who Have Already Donated
“I supported the Westwoods Solar Project because I believe it is important to teach future generations about how to use solar energy as a sustainable energy resource.”
-Suzanne Kaberle, Third Grade Teacher, Westwoods Elementary
Thanks to areas businesses that donated to our silent auction
| Catherine Schripsema – LuLa Roe | Mandi Young – Do Terra Wellness | West Bay Beach Resort |
| Fairfield Inn | Aristocrat Technologies | Burritt’s Market |
| Interlochen Academy for the Arts | Common Good Bakery | Iron Fish Distillery |
| Cathye Williams Sunny Soap | O’Hearn Pest Control | Yen Yoga and Fitness |
| Grand Traverse Resort – Tennis | Left Foot Charley | Mawby Sparkling Wines |
| Crystal Mountain | The Minervini Group | The State Theatre |
| West End Tavern | Yoga for Health Education | Apache Trout Grill |
| Morsels | Scalawags | Traverse City Golf Center |
| Peggy Johnson Music | City Opera House | Back Country North |
| Oryana | Cousin Jenny’s | The Dish Cafe |
| Four Seasons Nursery | Rarebird | Fresh Coast |
| Handz On Art | Neahtawanta Candle Co. | Frolic & Fern |
| Planted Cuisine | Beth Havens – Pampered Chef | Moomers |
| Mackinaw Brewing Co. | Kilwins |
All donors that contribute more than $1,000 will be acknowledged on a plaque beside our solar array.
