Our hat goes off to the Albert Lea School District for saving $176,010 for 2004-05 by conserving energy in the schools.

Since February of last year, the district has applied an energy management program through a company titled Energy Education Inc. The energy management program is run locally by former elementary Principal Steve Lund, who now works part-time.

Representatives from Energy Education Inc. visit each district and tailor programs to the needs of the district. Exclusively for energy savings in school districts, the company is knowledgeable about the kinds of equipment used in schools and can provide support on many levels.

The focus in School District 241 has been on people conserving energy, on educating the faculty on how to save money working with what they have.

Now people can see the results of simple measures like shutting off computers and lights when not in use. And of course, heating, cooling, humidity and use of water are taken into account. It all really does make a difference.

The district’s making a commitment to conserve energy is a savvy thing to do in an era of tight budgets. The staff position and cost of the energy management are more than paid for, and it all translates into more money for educational purposes.

We applaud the school board and adminstration for taking this initiative. We can all learn from what you’ve done.