BGE Provides Opportunities for Real-World Science Research at Wilde Lake Middle School

June 2nd, 2017

Wilde Lake Middle School (WLMS) is partnering with Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE) to help students learn about energy and its impact on the environment. The partnership will be formalized with an official partnership signing on Monday, June 5, at Wilde Lake Middle School, 10481 Cross Fox Lane, Columbia.

Under the terms of the agreement, BGE will collaborate with school staff and students to develop research projects using the data and information provided by the WLMS Environmental Dashboard. The dashboard provides information for users to better understand the highly energy efficient building systems incorporated into the net zero energy school. BGE subject matter experts will work with student scientists on various energy-related research projects and will provide guidance to a cadre of students who will become certified as WLMS energy ambassadors.

“I appreciate business partners who help us connect classroom instruction to real-world applications,” said HCPSS Acting Superintendent Michael J. Martirano. “BGE is helping us use this beautiful new school as an instructional tool for teaching science, and as a platform for students to learn and practice energy conservation.”

BGE will provide real-world examples to support Next Generation Science Standards including concepts about solar and geothermal power for classroom instruction. BGE will also introduce students to the vast array of STEM careers available and will conduct a series of community presentations on topics such as energy safety and savings.

Wilde Lake Middle School Principal Anne Swartz, Wilde Lake Middle School Parent Teacher Student Association President Sharon Barnes and Parent Volunteer Amber Coleman will join BGE Vice President of Customer Operations Rob Biagiotti and BGE Energy Efficiency Programs Manager Chris Walls to sign the formal partnership agreement at the June 5 event.

BGE is Maryland’s largest natural gas and electric utility, delivering power to more than 1.25 million electric customers and more than 650,000 natural gas customers. The company is committed to the safe and reliable delivery of natural gas and electricity, as well as enhanced energy management, conservation, environmental stewardship and community assistance.

The Howard County Public School System’s Partnerships Office has united schools with more than 1,000 businesses and community organizations to enhance the educational experience of Howard County students. Partnerships benefit schools, businesses and the entire community by leveraging the resources of all participants. Partners may commit human or financial resources or other support.

For more information, contact Partnerships Office Manager Mary Schiller at 410-313-6655 or mary_schiller@hcpss.org.