A few weeks later, a representative from EDF renewable energy casually mentioned that the company was decommissioning a handful of small wind turbines. The only cost for us would be the transportation and recommission of the turbine. The Green Team was ecstatic, but the looming question still remained: How would we pay to transport and commission this turbine? Around this time, Mrs. Belinda had applied for a scholarship from the Farmers’ Insurance “Thank a Teacher” program. Through this program, hardworking teachers can get funding for the school-related projects of their dreams. She applied for the “Dream Big Teacher Challenge” scholarship, which is worth $100,000; more than enough to cover the cost of the turbine. In this nationwide competition, she has made it to the top 15; the top 6 teachers will receive the funding for their big dreams. 

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The Harvesting the Wind project will fully integrate wind energy into the

curriculum at Red Lodge High School by installing a 65kW wind turbine on

campus. This project combines renewable energy production with Science,

Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education and solidifies a

partnership between Red Lodge Public Schools, the City of Red Lodge and EDF Renewable Energy. This wind turbine will not only reduce the school’s carbon footprint, but also serve as a priceless instructional tool that reduces energy costs while bringing green energy education and awareness to the entire community.