On Nov. 30, Mr. Richard Kling’s Principles of Engineering class built and raced model cars that ran off of different alternative energies. In recent years, his class has switched its lessons to those of Project Lead the Way.

Project Lead the Way gives students hands on opportunities in almost every class. It encourages students to take ownership of their own education by putting what they have learned into practical use.

“This program rejuvenated my career,” said Kling.

Each car that the students made was run off of solar, electric, and hydrogen energy. Learning how these cars work and what makes them run teaches the students by showing them how to utilize all available energy resources.

This lesson directly relates to real life applications as well. Solar panels were installed on the top of the building earlier this year.

“This lesson can teach students about solar energy and also help them learn how the solar panels on the building work,” said Kling.

Project Lead the Way has given Kling’s class a chance to grow. In the six years he has been teaching here, this is the first year that he has had two girls in his class, Emma Sona (10) and Lizz Kellogg (12). Kling is ecstatic.

“Having two girls in the class is great,” said King, “I hope that more sign up next year.”