Chantilly Campus: Exploring Renewable Energy with Dr. Diane Painter

Falcon Academy is pleased to welcome Dr. Diane Painter, a teacher-educator at Shenandoah University and an experienced STEM and KidWind educator, to our Chantilly campus for an introduction to renewable energy.

Our elementary students will explore how wind and sunlight can generate power and discover the science behind wind turbines and solar-energy projects. Dr. Painter will introduce how engineers design, test and improve these technologies, helping students connect classroom learning with practical applications.

The visit will also introduce the KidWind Challenge, encouraging students to explore how curiosity, creativity and teamwork can contribute to a renewable-energy project. Students will learn about the opportunity to work toward the competition planned for March 2027 at James Madison University.

This experience aims to spark questions, build interest in science and help young learners see themselves as capable problem-solvers.

Families can continue the conversation at home by asking their child what they discovered about wind and solar energy and what they would like to build or investigate next.