JFK Talented and Gifted Program Visits CRRA Trash Museum, Solar-Powered House

The JFK Middle School Gifted and Talented Program had its first field trip of the year on December 11th. The goal of the field trip was twofold: gain information on recycling and alternative energy. Our two visits did just that.

The 6th grade TAG students' Model Type III project is called 'Go Greener, JFK!'* They are focusing on JFK cafeteria recycling - a plan that will be in place on December 20th - as well as investigating the possibility of acquiring an anaerobic digester that will convert food scraps into compost. That compost, hopefully, will help with the greenhouse they would also like to acquire through grant money or donation.  Beautifying the campus with shade trees is another goal of the 6th graders.

The 7th and 8th graders are working on alternative energy for JFK with the Model Type III project entitled 'JFK Off the Grid.' They are looking at solar power as the most logical alternative energy for JFK. Geothermal energy, wind power, and bio fuels are also possibilities. The students are looking at the cost and effectiveness of each. Last year's electric bill at JFK was $153,269.26. Solar power would take a bite out of that cost.  Some students have even suggested that solar panels be installed at Enfield High gets its renovations and upgrades in the coming years.

The CRRA Trash Museum in Hartford was informative and engaging. Our hour and a half did not do the museum justice, as there is so much to take in. The students were able to gain more information about recycling and trash to energy.

Steve Moriarty's home on Sidor Drive in Enfield is a model for reducing one's carbon footprint. His is certainly on his way to becoming carbon-neutral and has dedicated himself to becoming fossil fuel-free. His various solar-powered devices include solar cookers, solar panels for electric and hot water, and even a solar heater for his computer room. Mr. Moriarty also composts and uses green household cleaning products.

All of our research will be presented at the Enfield Clean Energy Convention here at JFK on February 9, 2013. The students will show their Power Points to visitors and network with vendors to see how they can help or donate products to help us reduce our energy costs and recycle better here at school.

Members of the TAG program are Brian Ruel, Alex Jensen, Erica Lovering, Alessia Manzi, Alexis Delldonna, Ethan Shea, Kyle Chester, Sara Prosinski, Sydney Nash, Grace O'Neil, Alaina Santos, Kaylee Piotte, Jeremy Comfry, Kevin Stroiney, Ashley Smith, Rose Garrow, Matt Campo, Nick Steele, Alex Krawiec, Zach Healy, Skylar Steele, Hannah Smith, Jacquelyn Daiqneau, and Julia Radziewicz.

*A Model Type III project is a collaborative effort as the teacher and students learn the skills necessary to complete a creative product that will benefit something or solve a problem or both. This creative product has to be shown to an authentic audience.