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Our July Sustainability Chats focused on some amazing sustainability efforts happening with local elementary school, Hamilton-SOTA. If you missed it, you can now watch the video playback HERE.
We were joined by panelists Ben Burns (Hamilton-SOTA principal), Linda Vale (GROW), and Alysa Remsburg & Heather Talbot (SOLS: Solar on La Crosse Schools) to talk about and highlight Hamilton-SOTA's solar installation and food forest.
SOLS: Solar on La Crosse Schools kicked off the presentation sharing how they are working with local schools to implement solar. Co-director, Heather Talbot, shared how solar helps save energy dollars and protect our environment at the same time. In addition, the solar panels and installation provided an opportunity for learning for students. Students will be able to monitor performance of all aspects of these solar arrays for use in their science, technology, engineering, and math classes (STEM). Click to view the SOLS Slideshow
Next, Linda Vale from GROW: La Crosse, spoke about the benefits and importance of
Hamilton-SOTA's food forest. From providing accessible fresh foods in a food desert, to lessons about healthy food choices, the food forest gives to both students and the community. Principal Ben Burns stressed these points by sharing how classrooms utilize these spaces. He shared how the space is often used as an outdoor classroom, and how students are exposed to a variety of new foods and recipes. Principal Burns also spoke about how enjoyable and valuable the garden lessons provided by GROW are to his students.
Looking for ways to get involved? Both organizations are actively looking for volunteers. Find out more how you can help at:
GROW - Volunteer Sign up: Get Involved | GrowLaCrosse
SOLS - Ways to help: Join Us – SOLS: Solar On La Crosse Schools