Academy would capitalize on Earth-friendly economy

Under a plan envisioned by one city councilor, Boston would build a state-of-the-art environmental studies academy with solar panels and wind turbines that would prepare students for green sector jobs through a curriculum devoted to promoting sustainability.

At-Large City Councilor John Connolly admits that dream is several years away. But he said investing in such an institution as soon as possible is necessary to spur economic growth through green building and also to give Hub students an early opportunity to be part of a booming industry. His hope is that students K to 12 would learn everything from the causes of global warming to how to weatherize their homes.

“I think the biggest challenge is, particularly in urban schools, giving students the skills they need to compete in the world of the future, and that’s a green world,” he said.

Connolly, a former schoolteacher himself, hopes to hold a hearing in the next few months. Boston Public Schools officials haven’t seen the full proposal yet, but Superintendent Carol Johnson is scheduled to meet with Connolly next week, according to BPS spokeswoman.

Connolly pointed to other schools around the nation that are expanding green studies and green building. For instance, Georgia education officials later this year will open Arabia Mountain High School, which will boast a standardized environmental curriculum and is located in protected green space.