It was a victory for idealism over reality, willpower over cynicism, and a reminder of the optimism of youth.
East Northumberland Secondary School held the official ground breaking for a new 50-foot wind turbine which will be erected in the next three weeks.
The project was spearheaded and led by teacher Gwen McConkey, who with a small band of devoted students and staff and the support of the community, raised the $26,250 needed to pay for the environmental project which leads the way for the province.
Everyone present was all praise for Ms. McConkey.
School Principal, Jeff Kawzenuk quickly acknowledged the teacher's leadership role and the work of the students in her environmental club.
Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board Chair, Sylvia Terpstra commented, "I can't help but be proud of them (the organizing group). Look at what the kids are learning, led by the teacher who has gone beyond her responsibilities. She has been fully supported by her kids and doing the right thing for the environment."
Cyndi Dickson is the area trustee. She thanked the teacher and students for having taken a leadership role and congratulated them for making a difference going into the future.
Brighton Councillor Dave Cutler spoke on behalf of the municipality, adding, "This is just another example of how ENSS is a great member of the community, leading us forward into the next generation with students leading the way.
Ms. McConkey says it's about leadership in education.
East Northumberland Secondary School held the official ground breaking for a new 50-foot wind turbine which will be erected in the next three weeks.
The project was spearheaded and led by teacher Gwen McConkey, who with a small band of devoted students and staff and the support of the community, raised the $26,250 needed to pay for the environmental project which leads the way for the province.
Everyone present was all praise for Ms. McConkey.
School Principal, Jeff Kawzenuk quickly acknowledged the teacher's leadership role and the work of the students in her environmental club.
Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board Chair, Sylvia Terpstra commented, "I can't help but be proud of them (the organizing group). Look at what the kids are learning, led by the teacher who has gone beyond her responsibilities. She has been fully supported by her kids and doing the right thing for the environment."
Cyndi Dickson is the area trustee. She thanked the teacher and students for having taken a leadership role and congratulated them for making a difference going into the future.
Brighton Councillor Dave Cutler spoke on behalf of the municipality, adding, "This is just another example of how ENSS is a great member of the community, leading us forward into the next generation with students leading the way.
Ms. McConkey says it's about leadership in education.
The Environmental Club has put in many hours to make the project happen.Through dances and various fundraisers the club members each year have added to the total. Community members, companies and 15 community groups have also pitched in.
Their contributions will be recognized in a two-wall mural created by the Art Club under the direction of retired art teacher, Gerald Banting.
Surprisingly, the project is virtually unaltered from the one presented to a handful of people on a blustery December day just over two years ago.
The wind turbine, which is expected to power all the school computers and is connected to the grid, is the first of three phases in the environmental venture.
Next up are solar panels, followed by an interactive computer learning centre which will be able to track the energy generation second by second. When it is finally completed, over $65,000 will have been spent.
Teacher, Wally Alderdice, is the project manager and will oversee the efforts of the numerous area contractors who have donated time and equipment to the project.
The Art Club works on the mural. To view more photos click on Wind Turbine Gallery
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