Educators are integral in establishing clean energy initiatives that prepare public school students for in-demand careers and promote environmental sustainability — all while saving money on energy costs that can be reinvested in our classrooms.

MEA member Brian Prill’s solar panel project in Marquette — which is already reducing his school’s carbon footprint — demonstrates how such programs provide climate job pathways for students, said MEA Vice President Brett Smith.

“While our students are still in our public-school hallways, these projects provide on-the-job training for good-paying, clean energy jobs that reduce energy costs,” Smith said. “They also support clean energy systems and upgrades to our schools, creating healthier and safer learning spaces to help students succeed.

“In partnership with union tradespeople, educators can lead the way by providing strong career and technical education programs with hands-on learning opportunities that make a difference for students, communities and the environment.”

MEA is committed to supporting these efforts in schools statewide. That’s why we’re helping lead Michigan Climate Jobs – a new coalition dedicated to modernizing our schools’ energy infrastructure, showcasing renewable energy career opportunities for students, and ensuring clean energy work is done by skilled, union labor.

Learn more about this exciting new effort at miclimatejobs.org — you can also watch the coalition’s launch event here.