Rural school district turns to innovative solution for rising energy costs: 'Will pay for itself'
Rising energy costs and aging infrastructure are challenges facing many school districts, but one Pennsylvania community is turning them into opportunities for growth and savings. Cambria Heights School District is betting big on clean energy and efficiency upgrades to cut costs and improve facilities for its students.
Last April, district officials approved a 28-year power purchase agreement with Envinity and Solar Renewable Energy to install a solar array at the middle and high school campus in Clearfield Township, reported the Altoona Mirror. The project is expected to start this year and will cover nearly 100% of the campus' electricity needs at a reduced, fixed rate.
Superintendent Ken Kerchenske estimates the solar array will save the district more than $2 million in electric costs over the next two decades — all without any upfront costs. The savings will help fund a $1 million Public School Facility Improvement grant to replace outdated boilers and install air conditioning for the first time at the elementary school in Carrolltown Borough. The district also plans to upgrade fluorescent lighting to energy-efficient LEDs.
Should the government be paying us to upgrade our homes?
Definitely
Depends on how much it costs
Depends on what it's for
No way
Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.
"Over time, the lighting will pay for itself because it's so much more energy efficient," Kerchenske said.
The push for cleaner energy didn't stop there. During a special board meeting in December, Cambria Heights officials approved an energy services contract with Schneider Electric Buildings Americas Inc. for additional upgrades at the elementary school. The board also signed off on a solar assessment as part of the district's application for the Solar for Schools grant, which could fund rooftop solar panels.
"We're hoping that we can get basically free solar panels for the rooftop at the elementary school in Carrolltown through that grant," Kerchenske said.
These projects reflect a growing trend among schools to invest in clean energy as a way to save money and support the local economy. With renewable energy businesses showing strong long-term growth, Cambria Heights is proving that sustainability can make financial sense too.
Alongside its energy initiatives, the district is also expanding hands-on learning opportunities for students, including hydroponics and agriculture programs. With these investments, Cambria Heights is showing how schools can lead the way in both education and clean energy innovation.
Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
OLED Dominates Display Technology Market; High Growth Expected in Micro-LED Segment
Growth drivers in the display market include the adoption of larger screens, innovative technologies like OLED and micro-LED, and rising demand in sectors like consumer electronics and retail. Display market Dublin, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Display Market Industry Trends and Global Forecasts to 2035: Distribution by Type of Product, Type of Technology, End User, Type of Resolution, Aspect Ratio, Type of Touch Technology, Brightness, Viewing Angle, Power Consumption, Durability and Key Geographical Regions" report has been added to offering. The global display market size is estimated to grow from USD 167.47 billion in the 2025, to USD 261.38 billion by 2035, at a CAGR of 4.13% during the forecast period, till 2035. Display Market Growth and Trends The evolution of digital technology in the display sector has opened up unparalleled opportunities for companies to connect with and engage their intended audiences. The increasing trend towards larger screens across various fields, coupled with the introduction of innovative display technologies from advanced 3D displays to next-generation digital signage and video surveillance systems is transforming how people interact with information and visual content. Over the years, the rise of sophisticated technology has resulted in a range of technologies, including liquid crystal displays (LCDs), light-emitting diode displays (LEDs), organic light-emitting diode displays (OLEDs), and more. These displays are widely used in numerous devices, encompassing tablets, laptops, televisions, monitors, and digital signage. Moreover, the role of displays in providing visual feedback and facilitating interaction between users and electronic devices enhances user experience across various applications and sectors, making them a favored option among users and businesses alike. The appeal of foldable displays, flat panels, and touchscreen functionality also attract consumers in search of high-quality displays for their commercial needs. Additionally, the rising trend of digital display solutions in the retail industry has generated new avenues for companies to improve their in-store experiences. Intelligent, data-driven retail displays that offer personalized product suggestions, real-time inventory updates, and seamless integration with e-commerce platforms ultimately boost sales and foster customer loyalty. Given these factors, industry participants are adopting these state-of-the-art display solutions to create a memorable impact and establish their brand value for sustainable success in the ever-evolving digital environment, which will likely enhance the market's growth potential during the forecast period, till 2035. Display Market: Key Segments Market Share by Type of Product Based on the type of product, the global display market is segmented into automotive displays, digital signage & large format displays (interactive kiosks, interactive monitors, interactive tables, interactive video walls, interactive whiteboards), PC monitors and laptops, smart wearables, tablets, television, and others. Currently, the smartphones segment captures the majority share of the market. This can be attributed to the growing adoption of OLED and flexible displays in smartphones, which provide outstanding color precision and vibrancy, delivering richer and more lifelike visuals. However, wearable segment is anticipated to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period. Market Share by Type of Technology Based on the type of technology, the display market is segmented into direct-view LED, E-Paper / E-Ink, Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) (IPS LCD, TFT-LCD, TFT-LCD, VA LCD, Others) LED, Micro-LED, Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED), AMOLED, Micro-LED, Mini-LED, PMOLED), quantum dot, and others. Currently, OLED displays segment captures the majority share of the market. This can be attributed to the fact that major smartphone manufacturers, including Apple, Samsung, and Google, are increasingly incorporating OLED displays into their devices such as mobiles, tablets, and TVs due to their superior display quality and design versatility, which boosts demand for OLED technology. However, micro-LED segment is anticipated to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period. Market Share by Feature Based on the feature, the display market is segmented into flat panel display, flexible panel display, non-touch display, touch display, and transparent panel display. Currently, flat panels segment captures the majority share of the market, owing to the fact that flat panels have become standard displays widely used in TVs, monitors, laptops, and tablets. However, touchscreen displays segment is anticipated to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period. Market Share by Panel Size Based on the panel size, the display market is segmented into large display, medium display, micro-display, and small display. Currently, the micro display segment captures the majority share of the market. The use of micro-displays in wearable technology like smartwatches and near-to-eye devices, which require compact screens, greatly benefits from the advantages offered by micro-displays. Additionally, specialized medical devices that utilize micro-displays are anticipated to contribute to market expansion. However, medium display panels segment is anticipated to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period. Market Share by Type of Resolution Based on type of resolution, the display market is segmented into HD, 4K (ultra high definition), 8K (super high definition), and other resolutions. Currently, 4K (ultra-high definition) segment captures the majority share of the market. This can be attributed to the increasing demand for 4K resolution displays, particularly for streaming services and content creation. However, full HD resolution displays segment is anticipated to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period. Market Share by Aspect Ratio Based on aspect ratio, the display market is segmented into4:3, 16:9, 16:10, and others. Currently, 16:9 aspect ratio segment captures the majority share of the market. This can be attributed to its status as the standard aspect ratio widely utilized in most consumer electronics such as televisions, monitors, and smartphones. Additionally, it is the most frequently supported aspect ratio for both content consumption and creation. However, 16:10 aspect ratio segment is anticipated to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period. Market Share by Type of Viewing Based on type of viewing, the display market is segmented into narrow viewing angles, ultra-wide viewing angles, and wide viewing angles. Currently, wide viewing angles segment captures the majority share of the market. Wide viewing angles are commonly used in consumer electronics where shared viewing happens frequently, and their varied color brightness consistency contributes to them holding the largest market share in this segment. Moreover, the demand for high-end and professional screens boosts market growth. However, ultra-wide viewing angles segment is anticipated to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period. Market Share by Power Consumption Based on power consumption, the display market is segmented into high power consumption (more than 5W), low power consumption (less than 1W), and medium power consumption (1-5W). Currently, medium power consumption (1-5W) segment captures the majority share of the market. This can be attributed to their well-rounded performance and efficiency, making them well-suited for a variety of consumer electronics, with designs that enhance energy efficiency. Sample Players in the Display Market Profiled in the Report Include: AUO Corporation BOE Technology Group Box Light Corporation Chi Mei Corporation Innolux Corporation Japan Display Leyard Optoelectronic LG Display Marvel Technology Minda Industries Mitsubishi Electric NEC Corporation Panasonic Corporation Samsung Electronics Sharp Corporation Sony Corporation Display Market: Research Coverage The report on the display market features insights on various sections, including: Market Sizing and Opportunity Analysis: An in-depth analysis of the display market, focusing on key market segments, including type of products, type of technology, feature, panel size, type of end-user, type of resolution, aspect ratio, type of touch technology, brightness, viewing angle, power consumption, durability and geographical regions. Competitive Landscape: A comprehensive analysis of the companies engaged in the Display market, based on several relevant parameters, such as year of establishment, company size, location of headquarters, ownership structure. Company Profiles: Elaborate profiles of prominent players engaged in the Display market, providing details on location of headquarters, company size, company mission, company footprint, management team, contact details, financial information, operating business segments, display portfolio, moat analysis, recent developments, and an informed future outlook. SWOT Analysis: An insightful SWOT framework, highlighting the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats in the domain. Additionally, it provides Harvey ball analysis, highlighting the relative impact of each SWOT parameter. Key Questions Answered in this Report How many companies are currently engaged in display market? Which are the leading companies in this market? What factors are likely to influence the evolution of this market? What is the current and future market size? What is the CAGR of this market? How is the current and future market opportunity likely to be distributed across key market segments? Which type of display is expected to dominate the market? Reasons to Buy this Report The report provides a comprehensive market analysis, offering detailed revenue projections of the overall market and its specific sub-segments. This information is valuable to both established market leaders and emerging entrants. Stakeholders can leverage the report to gain a deeper understanding of the competitive dynamics within the market. By analyzing the competitive landscape, businesses can make informed decisions to optimize their market positioning and develop effective go-to-market strategies. The report offers stakeholders a comprehensive overview of the market, including key drivers, barriers, opportunities, and challenges. This information empowers stakeholders to stay abreast of market trends and make data-driven decisions to capitalize on growth prospects. Additional Benefits Complimentary Excel Data Packs for all Analytical Modules in the Report 10% Free Content Customization Detailed Report Walkthrough Session with Research Team For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Display market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
Opinion: What Employers Want, Project-based Learning Can Deliver
Dear high school and college students, Are you a good communicator? Can you effectively lead a team of your peers? Can you think critically about issues, ask questions, and find solutions to complex problems? If so, we're looking for you. Apply now if you can show evidence of teamwork, creativity, and a strong work ethic. We don't need 'good test-takers' or the highest GPA. No experience? No problem. We will train you. We want employees who know how to learn, think, and lead. We want employees with the skills to help our company succeed both now and in the future. Are you up for the challenge? Sincerely, Every Industry in America Today's education system fails to adequately prepare many students for college and the workforce. One survey found less than a quarter of high school graduates believe their schooling prepared them for life after graduation. Meanwhile, employers want candidates with '21st Century Skills,' but are coming up short. In recent years, however, there has been a promising shift as many states re-evaluate how to prepare students for the world. Twenty states and hundreds of districts have created 'Portraits of a Graduate' outlining the skills students should have by graduation such as communication, problem-solving, critical thinking and collaboration. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter Meanwhile, the landscape of K-12 assessments is also shifting. Last year when New York set a timeline to eliminate the requirement that students pass the Regents Exam in order to graduate, it joined a growing number of states that have ended reliance solely on exit exams as a condition of graduation. Instead, states are increasingly embracing measures such as performance-based assessments which measure both what students know and whether they can apply that knowledge. These students demonstrate their skills through completing a project or performing a certain activity, which can include. essays, portfolios or research papers. With the right support, these changes can effectively prepare students for the workforce of tomorrow. We have seen this happen in schools that have taken a project-based learning approach to instruction and assessment. For instance, the rural Adair County School District in Kentucky launched an initiative to help students build skills outlined in the state's portrait of a graduate and create a 'culture of inquiry.' In one project, high school English and business classes, led by teachers Amy South and JR Thompson, worked together to research local industries and community businesses, interview business owners, analyze marketing strategies and develop comprehensive plans for promoting the community and its local businesses to outsiders. As part of the process, students were introduced to the concept of a 'strong hook' to capture interest and then divided into two teams. Each team worked collaboratively to propose a value proposition and refine their marketing strategies. They were then required to pitch their ideas and plans, ultimately narrowing down their focus to two distinct community projects. They presented their final pitches live to a jury, which selected one — a Marketing Day Vendor Fair — to be implemented in the community. The project culminated in students hosting an event at the high school showcasing local businesses The Thomas Edison CTE High School in Queens, New York, is currently a mentor school for the New York State Department of Education, training other schools to develop performance-based assessments. It uses a project-based learning model in which students engage in real-world and personally meaningful projects. It developed a framework and 'essential skills' rubric that assesses both how well students know the content and whether they can demonstrate essential skills of communication, collaboration, feedback and reflection, design thinking and professionalism. Related These are just two examples of schools that are leading the way in making sure students are prepared for the world by the time they graduate. We need more stories like this. Instead of focusing on cuts to education, we need to continue the momentum happening in New York and elsewhere by supporting and growing these innovative programs. We call on parents, caregivers, students, schools, districts, boards of education, policy makers and government agencies to focus on these key areas to ensure the momentum continues and the changes last Professional development and capacity building: Institutions must ensure all teachers have ample time for professional development around performance-based curriculum and assessments as well as ongoing professional support. Buy-in at all levels is required in order to strengthen the system and build the capacity needed to make the shift toward building and measuring real-world skills. Funding: Re-defining student success — and how to assess it — will require investment. State leaders must ensure that there is funding to provide the staffing, training, curriculum and resources to support implementing performance-based assessments. Stakeholder alignment: K-12 schools, local industries and higher education institutions must be aligned on which skills are important for career and college readiness. Communications: Some students may resist performance-based assessments because they have learned how to navigate the current system and do well on tests. Communicating effectively to students and families will help to shift mindsets and make the process smoother. Change is slow, but worth it. It will take persistence. There must be a willingness from all involved to hold the line and know it might take 10 years for this new way of assessing student learning to fully take hold. We are experiencing a rare opportunity to change education and improve student success. This work must be intentional, evidence-based, and supported at all levels. We implore education leaders, policy makers, schools, districts and communities to lay the groundwork now to ensure students have a successful future and can respond to the 'letter to high school and college graduates' with a resounding 'Yes.'
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
Former treasurer of state foreign language teacher association charged with theft of over $240K from organization
A Muskego-Norway School District teacher and former treasurer of a nonprofit organization is facing a felony charge alleging she stole over $240,000 from the nonprofit and used it for her personal benefit. Kellie Villalobos, 51, was charged June 2 in Milwaukee County Circuit Court with one felony count of theft from a business setting over $100,000. If convicted, Villalobos could face a fine of up to $25,000, up to 12½ years in prison, or both, according to the criminal complaint. As of the afternoon of June 4, Villalobos' name was still listed on the Muskego-Norway School District's website as a Spanish teacher. Muskego-Norway School District marketing and communications specialist Alyssa Meyer did not immediately respond to a reporter's phone or email messages seeking comment. According to the criminal complaint: From September 2014 until February 2024, Villalobos was treasurer for the Wisconsin Association of Foreign Language Teachers, a nonprofit organization providing professional development for world language teachers. Villalobos' role meant she had access to the organization's financial accounts. The complaint accuses Villalobos of misappropriating over $242,000 from the organization for personal purchases. The investigation began in March 2024 when the association's current finance chair and co-treasurer made a complaint to the Milwaukee Police Department after the organization did a preliminary audit of its financial accounts. The audit revealed that at least $150,000 was missing or unaccounted for, the complaint said. Issues were first noticed in January 2024, when the complaint said Villalobos spent down the organization's accounts to the point where it could not pay its bills. The Hilton Paper Valley Hotel notified the association on Jan. 25, 2024, that it had not paid a $17,075.72 bill from its November 2023 annual conference. Villalobos said she had forgotten about the bill because she had a house fire, the complaint said. She said the hotel should receive payment by Jan. 30, 2024, but that did not happen. Villalobos then said she had been mistaken about the timing of the payment and that she would issue a check. Hilton received the check Feb. 5, 2024, but it was rejected for insufficient funds, and the hotel notified the association on Feb. 10. Villalobos said she would arrange payments made on a credit card in $5,000 increments. On Feb. 13, 2024, Villalobos deposited $3,000 from her personal account to the association's account, but that check bounced. When confronted, Villalobos claimed she accidentally used the association's credit card instead of her own and would reimburse the organization for the error. Villalobos was removed as treasurer Feb. 29, 2024. After Villalobos' removal, several association members conducted an in-depth audit of her financial activities. When Villalobos started as treasurer in 2014, the organization's financial account balance was $141,354.63. From 2018 to 2024 the organization noticed the account's balance diminish rapidly from a starting balance of $203,799.94 in 2018 to $1,597.18 in 2024, the complaint said. The organization's typical annual expenses came to about $34,000, an association official told police. That amount included the November conference and other expenses such as print, officer stipends and scholarships. The specific annual amounts could vary, but over a seven-year period, anticipated expenses should have totaled about $238,000, the complaint said. Instead, expenses totaled $626,191.92 between 2018 and 2024. When an investigator with the Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office reviewed the organization's financial account statements, they discovered "hundreds of fraudulent transactions," the complaint said. For example, the investigator found: 47 transactions for Walmart from Jan. 13, 2022, through Nov. 4, 2023, totaling $4,776.31 for an account under Villalobos' name; items from 41 of those transactions were delivered to Villalobos' home. $2,161.96 in transactions to Villalobo's WE Energies account between January 2020 and October 2023 multiple transactions to a travel website, totaling $5,424.34 between November 2018 and April 2022 35 payments totaling $5,568.82 to Villalobos' Spectrum account charged to association credit cards between November 2019 and September 2023 256 item purchases from Amazon by Villalobos totaling $7,092.19 between August 2021 and January 2024 69 transactions for Instacart between August 2020 and November 2023 totaling $5,627.34. The delivery address for most of those transactions was Villalobos' house. An arrest warrant has been issued for Villalobos; no hearing for the case has been set yet, according to online court records. When a reporter tried calling May Y Lee, Villalobos' attorney, at her law office the afternoon of June 4, the person who answered said Lee was not available and declined comment. Villalobos did not immediately respond to a reporter's phone calls requesting comment. Contact Alec Johnson at (262) 875-9469 or Follow him on Twitter at @AlecJohnson12. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Villalobos accused of theft of over $240K from nonprofit
