NEWS
Davidson K-8 Goes Solar
The solar panel dedication at Davidson K-8.
A slight mist at the end of the ceremony couldn’t dampen the spirits of people gathered at Davidson K-8 on Friday afternoon for the dedication of its new solar panels. [see our photo album from the event]
Eighth grader Kobe told the audience about how the new solar panels will help educate students.
Several hundred students, faculty, staff, friends, family, and members of the community were in attendance.
The school chorus, under the direction of Matthew Ablan, performed “What A Wonderful World,” followed by a rockin’ rendition of the Beatles’ “Can’t Buy Me Love.”
They were followed by the middle school band, led by Denise Mayes.
Principal Amanda Childress welcomed everyone to the momentous event. She thanked everyone in attendance and, most importantly, Trane Technologies for being the “Champion Sponsors” of the panels.
The system is a set of 12 panels affixed on a pedestal, located in between the middle school building and the soccer field. The array is pointed toward the southeastern sky for optimal sun coverage. The project received a grant from NC GreenPower and included additional support from NC Solar Now and SunPower.
Principal Amanda Childress thanked everyone in attendance and specifically highlighted the partnership with Trane Technologies.
According to the sign on the array pedestal “Since 2003, NC GreenPower has worked to expand public knowledge and acceptance of cleaner energy technologies to all North Carolinians through local, community-based initiatives. NC GreenPower Solar + Schools provides educational installations at K-12 schools. This project was installed with pride by NC Solar Now. Solar modules were generously provided by SunPower.”
Christian Lockwood and Amy Volz, Trane employees and Davidson K-8 parents, came to the podium on behalf of their employer. Lockwood talked about the perfect partnership as Trane strives to be an engaged partner with the community. He specifically cited Trane’s’ Sustainable Future program and how it dovetailed with their commitment to K-12 education.
Eighth grader Kobe Turner was selected to talk about the significance of the event. He took time to thank Trane for their partnership. Most importantly, Kobe highlighted that not only will the solar panels provide energy to the school, they will serve as a source of education for students. He talked about how the solar array works, how students will be able to learn from it, and why that matters.
With what could be described as unbridled enthusiasm, Kobe introduced Mayor Rusty Knox who highlighted that this partnership between Trane and Davidson K-8 is in line with Davidson’s sustainability goals. Mayor Knox wrapped up by talking about the impact of this big project in our small town. Following his remarks, several members of the National Junior Honor Society cut the red ribbon with a pair of big scissors. The middle school dance group spread out across the soccer field and danced their way toward the end of the ceremony.
Principal Childress thanked everyone for attending, and as if on cue, the slight mist got a little heavier and marked the end of the Solar Panel Dedication Ceremony.