PRIDE presented plaques to the two classes that won the Goose Rock Elementary PRIDE Club’s contest for decorating classroom doors to promote energy conservation. Ms. Marsha Robertson’s class was the primary-grade winner, and Ms. Amanda Robinson’s class was the upper-grade winner. The PRIDE Club won the region’s PRIDE Environmental Education Project of the Month Award.

The PRIDE Club, which explores environmental issues and performs community service, organized a contest to decorate classroom doors with energy-conservation themes.

The club named a primary-grade winner and an upper-grade winner. The winners were Ms. Marsha Robertson’s class and Ms. Amanda Robinson’s class.

"We wanted to see evidence of student participation, and, of course, ways to promote energy efficiency," explained Emily Jackson, the teacher who sponsors the PRIDE Club.

"I commend the PRIDE Club members and Ms. Jackson for organizing this contest," said PRIDE’s Mark Davis, who presented the award at the school on Jan. 27.

"The students learned about energy efficiency, and then they had fun decorating the doors and competing with other classes," Davis said. "Because they enjoyed the lesson, they are more likely to remember the message and share it with others."

"Energy costs are a hot topic now for schools and for families, so this was a timely project," Davis added. "For Kentucky’s K-12 public schools, energy costs almost doubled from 2009/2010 to 2010/2011. Using energy wisely is obviously important."

Goose Rock Elementary School received a $1,500 PRIDE grant to implement an energy conservation project based on findings of an energy audit conducted as part of the state’s Green and Healthy School program.

The PRIDE Environmental Education Project of the Month program rewards creative, effective ways of promoting environmental awareness and stewardship.

"We give awards to thank people and to showcase the great things going on in our region, so please contact us if you want to nominate a person, school, business or organization that is helping our environment or inspiring others to care for nature," Davis said. "Our toll-free number is 888-577-4339, or you can contact us through our web site."

Energy conservation resources also are available on the PRIDE web site, which is