Back to School means the meters are running at your school. You can slow them down by turning off lights and other energy-wasting items. It’s time to get your energy patrols back out into the school saving energy and money for another year. If you are wondering how to get your students energized for a new year of patrols or are worried about getting your fellow teachers back into the routine of turning the lights out when they leave the room, we have some keys to help your Watt Watchers Patrols have a successful year by getting off to the right start.

Educate Your Teachers

1. Consider starting your program in stealth mode. See the activity page in this manual for more information on how to go undercover with your patrols. (Secret Mission)
2. Have the students present the program to the teachers during a conference period. Students love teaching teachers about things they are involved in—give your students the opportunity to jump start your new teachers. Let them know that Zero Hero Awards will be given at the end of the year – teachers love a good competition!
3. Provide your teachers with the “Knowledge is Power” Curriculum Supplement.

Educate Your Students

1. Train your new students. You most likely have a new group of students to go on patrol this year, so you need to teach them about the program and how important it is to reduce the energy waste in your school. Take them on their first patrol so that you can show them the ropes.
2. Have the students that will be patrolling do a presentation for the student body at your school during lunch. It is important for everyone in the school to know that your school is actively reducing energy waste and air pollution.
3. Make announcements over the PA system the first few weeks of your patrolling to remind staff to turn off unused electrical items. You might also consider announcing the cost of electricity at your school each month and the savings that you have accrued.
4. Display posters in your halls about energy efficiency. There is one poster included with this content to use as an example. Plan a session with your students to create your own posters to communicate techniques they know for saving energy. Laminate the posters and use them as decorations around the school.
5. Encourage the students to take their new energy savings attitude home and share the information with their parents. Energy efficiency is the key to our energy future. It starts with everyone making a change.