Teachers learn to use a radiometer.

For the second year, the C4EE is offering professional development training for teachers in public, private and charter schools in the area. Eleven teachers throughout Halifax and Northampton counties participated.
This year, the training is being made possible by a gift from Duke Energy Renewables. For the 2016-17 school year, the training program was expanded to include high school and elementary teachers. Funding covered the costs of program development, teacher stipends, classroom kits, manuals and meals for the training dates.
“Partnering with the C4EE allows Duke Energy Renewables to place an emphasis on education within our communities,” said Michael J. Butler, director Solar Operations, Duke Energy Renewables. “As the energy industry continues to adopt renewable technologies such as solar, we believe it is essential for students to develop a deeper understanding of these technologies and how they fit into our energy future. Duke Energy Renewables was happy to support this effort for local educators.”
One important component of the program is the availability of hands-on classroom kits provided to teachers at no charge.
The kits include various tools for students to use in the collection of data related to solar energy. Teachers interested in utilizing the kits simply contact the C4EE, and the kits will be delivered to the teacher. The classroom kits are a valuable asset to a classroom teacher where funds for classroom supplies are limited.
The Center for Energy Education plans to expand the program in the coming years to include surrounding counties.