Letter: Support for solar in schools making big difference

A school district’s primary mission is, of course, the education and growth of our students. Another vital responsibility is to be prudent stewards of the community’s resources. The Solar for Schools grant is a milestone in fulfilling that promise to our taxpayers and families.PennEnvironment reports that the potential for solar energy is staggering, with projected savings of nearly $12 million in Berks County school districts alone.

In the Exeter School District, we aren’t just looking at those numbers — we are living them. Our newly approved solar farm is projected to save taxpayers more than $10 million over 30 years. By generating 40% of the electricity needed for seven buildings and the transportation garage, we are effectively insulating our district against the rising costs of energy and pressures of inflation.

The grant allows us to move forward with minimal upfront costs, ensuring financial relief for our residents begins as soon as the sun hits those panels.

Our school board has made a multi-year commitment to reviewing this project. It took careful planning to ensure this wasn’t just a “green’ initiative” but fiscally wise. By choosing solar, we are showing our students that leadership means looking toward the future.

I am grateful to the commonwealth for investing in Exeter and to Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, who helped bring this program to life. It’s an investment in our classrooms, our teachers and our community’s long-term financial health. We are proud to lead the way for Berks and for districts across Pennsylvania.

Dr. Christy Haller

Superintendent, Exeter School District