Inspiring Sustainable Action with Colorado Springs D11
On September 10, 2024, Schneider Electric partnered with Colorado Springs School District 11 to host Green Summit, a district-wide symposium focused on sustainability for students in grades 4-12. The event aimed to educate students about environmental leadership, waste diversion, and green jobs, inspiring them to make a difference in their schools' sustainability goals.
After a year of planning, the event brought together 135 students from seven D11 schools, eight community partners, two keynote speakers, and ten student sessions.
Students enjoyed informative and engaging speaker presentations from Schneider Electric, the D11 Team, and HealthCARE Elevation. Community partners who led student sessions included Colorado Springs Utilities, the United States Air Force, Waste Connections, Concrete Couch, Drive Clean Colorado, Colorado State University Office of Engagement and Extension (CSU OEE), Fountain Creek Watershed, and Shutter & Strum.
The students who attended the summit not only gained knowledge but also a sense of empowerment. They are now prepared and confident to actively participate in sustainable initiatives for their schools as sustainability advocates.
"Your team's commitment to promoting sustainability and green initiatives is truly inspiring. I am hopeful that the insightful discussions, innovative ideas, and collaborative spirit that was showcased at the summit has left a lasting impact on all attendees. It was a privilege to have you all as a part of such a forward-thinking and impactful event." - John Berdon, Energy & Sustainability Manager at Colorado Springs D11
In addition to collaborating on Green Summit, D11 and Schneider Electric are finalizing details on a district modernization project that would impact over 50 of D11’s schools. The project would include a combination of classroom improvements and energy efficiency upgrades that are expected to save taxpayers $50 million over the lifetime of the project and bolster D11 as the most energy cost-efficient school district in El Paso County.
To learn more about how Schneider Electric works with school districts to create impactful, hands-on STEAM learning programs, visit our Student Engagement page.