The sun's rays shine brightly and powerfully in the skies of Central Wisconsin, as do the futures of the children in our local high schools.  In an effort to combine the potential of both, Wisconsin Public Service has passionately implemented their SolarWise For Schools program in communities throughout Central Wisconsin. 

A renewable energy and educational program conducted by WPS Community Foundation, Inc., SolarWise^� For Schools provides selected high schools with solar-electric panels to be mounted on the school�s roof, in addition to a three-week curriculum related to energy and solar power.  Schools located within Wisconsin Public Service�s electric service area are eligible for the program.  As of 2007, 38 schools have become SolarWise^�, with seven of those schools located in Central Wisconsin�Mosinee, Merrill, D.C. Everest, Wausau East, Wausau West, Marathon, and Antigo.   

In addition to the solar systems and curriculum, students in SolarWise^� schools are eligible to participate in the Solar Olympics, which are held annually in May.  This one-day renewable energy event challenges student teams to compete in eleven different solar energy events, such as the Solar Cooker, Solar Car, and Solar Photography.  A fun-filled and educational day, the Solar Olympics provides students with yet another unique opportunity for hands-on experience with renewable energy.

The benefits of partnering schools with SolarWise^� are seemingly endless, however can be condensed into three key benefits.  First, the students who participate in SolarWise^� gain a unique, hands-on understanding of solar energy and their role in leading a greener, energy efficient lifestyle.  Second, the direct environmental impact SolarWise^� and the installed solar panels have on the environment is significant.  In one year, the solar systems eliminate the need to burn 151,000 lbs. of coal, and provide the school with 122,000 kilowatt-hours of renewable electric power.  Third, the presence of SolarWise^� in communities throughout Central Wisconsin increases the awareness of the benefits of solar energy and the need to embrace renewable as a dependable form of energy.

The SolarWise^� For Schools program would not be the success it is without the support of community members throughout Central Wisconsin and the electric service area of Wisconsin Public Service.  Supporting SolarWise^� for Schools is as easy as checking a box, as minimal as $1 a month, and is tax deductible.  If you are interested in learning more about SolarWise^� and how to become a community supporter, visit the SolarWise for Schools (Wisconsin Public Service Corporation) website.  With the smallest of donations, you can help make the futures of our local students shine as bright as the sun.