[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 21 (Thursday, February 11, 2010)]
[Senate]
[Page S565]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 RECOGNIZING OAK PARK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

 Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, I would like to take a moment to 
congratulate Oak Park Elementary School in Des Moines, IA, which was 
granted the Energy Star Rating in recognition of its achievements and 
practices in energy conservation.
  The Energy Star Program is jointly managed by the U.S. Environmental 
Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Energy to reduce energy 
consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This program encourages many 
facets of energy efficiency. In order to attain the Energy Star Rating, 
schools must score in the top 25 percent under EPA's national rating 
performance system.
  At a time when the United States leads the world in energy 
consumption and emissions of greenhouse gases, Oak Park Elementary is 
serving as a role model for schools across the Nation. Under the 
guidance of the Des Moines School District, Oak Park became an Energy 
Star Partner in May 2008. Oak Park has reduced its energy consumption, 
operating costs, and greenhouse gas emissions. Simple measures such as 
turning off lights, computers, and convenience appliances have made a 
big difference.
  It is important that we recognize the accomplishments of schools such 
as Oak Park Elementary. Along with helping the environment, Oak Park is 
also saving the school district money. During these tough economic 
times, with school budgets under extreme pressure, this is more 
important than ever. Just as important, these energy conservation 
actions by the Oak Park Elementary community instill a strong sense of 
environmental and natural resource stewardship. Oak Park Elementary's 
students, teachers, and staff are fostering excellent habits of 
conscientious citizenship.
  Oak Park Elementary has proven that simple changes in daily practices 
can make a big difference. By setting attainable goals and being 
persistent, this school community was able to make significant 
improvements. I offer my sincere congratulations to everyone at Oak 
Park Elementary School for their commitment to energy efficiency and 
conservation. They make the State of Iowa proud.

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