April 20 was a red-letter day for the greening of West Virginia's schools.
The first Sustainable Schools West Virginia Summit in Morgantown brought administrators from 45-50 percent of the state's county school systems and leaders of half the state's colleges and technical schools together for
Attendees heard and discussed ways to practice what they teach by conserving water and energy, reducing waste and designing and building new facilities that are environmentally friendly.
"West Virginia's educational community is incredibly interested in sustainability issues," said presenter and participant Kelly A. Bragg, energy development specialist with the state's Division of Energy. "We heard about real projects having real impact, from Wyoming County's Energy Star Schools to the green roof at Brooks Hall on the campus of (West Virginia University). A conference of this type allows West Virginia to learn what is working as well as showcase our success."