OEP hosted the 2017 Energy Education Camps for K-12 Educators at Montgomery Bell State Park from June 13-15 and Pickwick Landing State Park from June 20-22. The three-day camps provided educators with information and resources needed to teach on topics related to energy and energy conservation in the classroom and showed them how to involve students in service learning projects that promote environmental stewardship. Participating educators were provided with energy-related classroom materials, as well as complementary lodging and meals. Click here to learn more about the energy resources OEP used for the camp.
OEP hosted its first-ever series of Energy Education Workshops at Neely’s Bend Elementary School in August 2017. The Workshops focused on the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse, educating students about a variety of related solar energy topics. Students experimented with radiometers and solar balloons in celebration of the special event. The students also built solar cars and made bracelets using UV beads and pipe cleaner. Each student took home eclipse viewing glasses and a map of the eclipse’s path of totality across the U.S.
Pickwick Landing Energy Camp
“I thoroughly enjoyed the camp and felt that the information and activities will be beneficial in facilitating the learning of my students and in helping me personally better understand science and energy in my daily world. I was able to meet and work with other educators, increasing my learning community. Was able to develop concepts and ideas to better meet the needs of my students. I am excited about sharing what I learned with other educators. It was a wonderful experience from beginning to end.” Alyson Gunster, LaVergne Lake Elementary
“Energy Camp was awesome. Starting from the great ice breaker introduction to the final energy house competition. The hands on activities were excellent and I loved walking away with materials I can use in my classroom. I learned a lot about energy types and sources of energy. I will encourage others at my school to attend.” Malcolm Sanders, Millington Middle School
"Energy Camp 2017 was amazing and I must say that energy makes more sense. I feel better equipped to teach what was shared, use the resources, and I also have a greater appreciation for natural resources.” Catina Mack Roberts, Peabody Elementary
“I really enjoyed the energy camp! The presenters did an excellent job. I think the format and pacing was better than at any other workshop I've attended. I also appreciate that the activities presented came with a lesson plan and that they could be used with a variety of grade levels and topics. Mr. Basconi's kit book is one of a kind. I really wish there were other science concepts explained as simply and as thoroughly with a hand's on approach as he's done in his book. You've really created a workshop that can be applied in the classroom.” Amy Steinbrink, Munford Middle School
Montgomery Bell Energy Camp
“Thank you so much for inviting us to your camp again this year! I always enjoy working with you, your team members and those wonderful teachers. You and your small staff do such a great job with these camps.” Ed Basconi, KitBook creator and instructor
“Great job. Opened my mind to alternative sources of energy as well as how to use energy more efficiently.” Debra Gann, McKissack Middle School
“This has been the BEST PD I have ever participated in. The activities were great and I can’t wait to try them in my classroom. The fellowship with other science teachers has been inspiring and enlightening.” Leanne Shell, Etowah City School
“Accommodations - awesome, activities - great, pace -fantastic and the chance to collaborate was incredible! Super positive, comfortable-best I’ve been to on several levels in years.” Brandy Helms, Covington Academy