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State Symposium To Chart Healthier, More Efficient Schools

MUSKEGON -- In an effort to help shape the future of the educational experience for Michigan's school-age children, -- especially the healthiness and energy efficiency of schools -- plans are being finalized for a gathering of schools' various stakeholder groups in Lansing this June.

"Schools of the Future: Making Connections Today" will be held Tuesday, June 18 in the West Campus Auditorium of Lansing Community College. The event will be hosted by the West Michigan and Detroit Regional Chapters of the United States Green Building Council.

"Close to 25 percent of the U.S. population attends school in nearly 140,000 buildings across the country," explained Renae Hesselink, chair of the USGBC West Michigan Chapter's Green School Committee. "Many of these buildings are out-of-date, lacking healthy levels of natural light and ventilation. In addition to structural problems, school budgets are stretched, teachers are stressed, and students are struggling to keep up. We can do better. This seminar will look for tomorrow's answers while celebrating today's innovative thinking in education."

Utilizing a format similar to the globally popular TEDx series, the program will feature a variety of speakers from across the educational spectrum, presenting in 15-minute segments. Speakers will include teachers, school administrators and students, as well as members of the design and construction industry and elected officials. All attendees will have the opportunity to interact directly with the speakers and event organizers.

"We want to bring together those with a passion for education, people who dream big and share our commitment to creating healthier, more productive schools," said Peggy Matta, Chair of the USGBC Detroit Regional Chapter Green School Committee. Event organizers are still seeking sponsors and presenters to fill out the day-long roster.

Potential sponsors, presenters and attendees are invited to learn more about Schools of the Future: Making Connections Today at www.futureschoolstoday.org.

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