Northwood Students Learn How Solar Energy Can Power Schools and Futures

Fourth grade students at Northwood Elementary recently explored how renewable energy works and why it matters through a hands-on classroom learning experience. The lesson connected science, math, and real-world problem solving while introducing students to the idea that their own school could one day generate clean energy from the sun. 

The presentation took place in Michelle Canion’s fourth grade classroom and was led by Saul Contreras, Strategic Account Manager at McKinstry, our PowerED Energy Management partners helping PSD to comply with state energy requirements. Students learned how solar energy systems capture sunlight and convert it into electricity that can be used to power buildings like schools. The discussion focused on how these systems can benefit schools, communities, and the environment. 

Students asked thoughtful questions and made clear connections between energy use and school resources. Daryna shared, “Projects like this matter for schools because they are not using electricity, but they are using sun energy. If we use more electricity, then the school district will need more money for the electrical bill.” Evan added that using solar energy could help the school rely less on the electrical grid and save money over time. 

Several students were especially interested in the scale of the project. Easton noted, “What stood out to me is that the solar project on our school will have more than 300 panels on the top of the roof. I think this is helpful because we need more energy for our air conditioning.” Others focused on the engineering behind the system. Elizabeth explained, “I think projects like these matter because they are trying to power the whole school with no help from the city. I learned that the solar panels have to be at an 11.6 degree angle because if they are at a 0 degree angle, the solar energy will just bounce off.” 

The lesson also highlighted how solar energy connects to future careers. Ellouise shared, “Why I think projects like these matter to students is because they learn about energy, and if someone wants a job like this, they will know more.” Kai added simply, “You need a lot of math to plan it.” Students recognized that designing and installing solar systems requires calculations, planning, and teamwork. 

Environmental benefits were another key takeaway. Mark explained, “These kinds of projects help the students, schools, and communities by reducing greenhouse gases.” Theo reflected on how saving energy can have a broader impact, saying, “One new thing I learned about solar energy is solar panels save electricity. It stood out to me because a lot of things use electricity, and it’s good to save it. I think this project helps students, teachers, and our community because it saves power.” Lenno added that learning about panel placement helped him understand how sunlight is absorbed more efficiently. 

“This type of learning helps students see that science does not stop at the classroom door. It shows them how what they are learning applies to real problems and real solutions,” said Michelle Canion, Fourth Grade Teacher at Northwood Elementary. 

The classroom presentation connected student learning to a proposed solar project at Northwood Elementary. “Students are still asking questions and wondering about solar panels. That curiosity tells me the experience made a lasting impact,” shared Michelle. 

The Puyallup School District continues to explore grant opportunities through its participation in the PowerEd Energy Management Program. Grant funding in the future could support a proposed rooftop solar installation that would generate electricity on site, helping reduce the school’s reliance on traditional power sources. Over time, energy savings could support classroom staffing, instructional materials, and student learning needs. The project would also contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality for the school community. 

Projects like this aim to support equity while providing real-world learning experiences that help students understand how science and engineering can solve everyday challenges. Over the course of 25 years, total savings could reach nearly $1.2 million. These savings would return to the district’s general fund, which supports classroom staffing, materials, and student learning needs. 

By connecting classroom instruction to real facilities planning, the district reinforces its commitment to safe, efficient, and sustainable schools. Most importantly, experiences like this help students see how their learning applies beyond the classroom and how they can play a role in shaping for a more sustainable future. 

The district will continue to share updates as additional funding opportunities become available. Families and community members interested in learning more about the PowerED program are encouraged to visit the district website. 

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