Alexandria City Public Schools

Home » News Releases » 2009-2010 » November 4, 2009

Jefferson-Houston Students Attend Department of Energy's Solar Decathlon

Jefferson-Houston School fifth- and sixth-grade students, accompanied by teachers and one parent volunteer, attended the U.S. Department of Energy's bi-annual 2009 Solar Decathlon on Oct. 16.

Visiting the houses built by university students from around the world, the students braved chilly temperatures to learn about renewable sources of energy, architecturally sustainable design and future college and career opportunities. Students traveled on the metro to the National Mall, rounding out an environmentally and educationally fulfilling day.

Some students were able to enter as many as six houses to ask questions of the actual student-builders about the houses' design and eco-friendly features. A chair that folds flat to hang on the wall, a solar-powered popcorn maker and a bed that descends from the ceiling were some of the design techniques that fascinated the young learners.

For more information, contact the school at 703-706-4400.

DID YOU KNOW?

Two ACPS "modified calendar" schools - Mount Vernon Community School and Samuel W. Tucker Elementary School - offer three intersessions throughout the school year, featuring a wide selection of both remedial and special-interest classes.