From classroom supplies to library books and computers, a school’s budget can be stretched thin.

Westwoods Elementary School in Grand Traverse County is no different, but they do have an added challenge. Westwoods saw an influx of students after several area elementary schools were closed this year, making their needs that much greater.

Rather than shy away, Westwoods embraced the challenge and used it to create an opportunity to not only raise money for the school, but educate their students on the benefits of energy efficiency as well.

In partnership with Cherryland Electric Cooperative and Hybralux, a Michigan-based energy technology development company, Westwoods established the LED Learning program. The program encourages students and their families to upgrade their old incandescent lighting to more energy-efficient LED lighting in their homes.

The students’ parents purchase the LED light bulbs from Hybralux and, in turn, the company donates the profits back to Westwoods. “This is truly a win-win-win program,” said David Noe, director of new business development for Energy Advantage Group (the sales arm of Hybralux). “The school is creating revenue, the parent’s households are saving dramatically on their energy bills and the environment is being improved through a cut in power consumption.”

In addition to the energy savings, students are taught about Cherryland’s residential energy optimization program. Once the lighting upgrades are complete, students are encouraged to help their parents fill out a rebate form so they may receive a credit on their Cherryland electric bill.

Students report their results and earn achievements within the Michigan Green Schools program— a statewide initiative meant to encourage students to learn about preserving natural resources, protecting the environment, and promoting energy efficiency and savings. Based on their green initiatives, the school receives points that earn the school growing levels of environmental stewardship.

To date, the students at Westwoods have achieved the level of “Emerald School” in the program. Their next goal is to replace the current bulbs in the school with LEDs and earn the level of “Evergreen School.” Kris Moffett, president of Michigan Green Schools, applauded Westwood’s initiative. “It is really great to see Westwoods move to LEDs,” said Moffett. “It isn’t widely known, but energy costs are the second biggest part of most school budgets.”

All in all, Westwoods’ LED Lighting program is a success. The school now has 28 families participating and raised $4,135. Westwood Elementary School met the challenge of its growing pains. They developed a fun, educational program that satisfies the needs of its students, their families, and their budget.