Smart Energy Squad prepares for another year of impact

As schools begin planning for the 2026-2027 academic year, MRES is once again encouraging member utilities to participate in the Smart Energy Squad program, an interactive energy education initiative designed specifically for fifth-grade students.

The turnkey program teaches students about energy efficiency, electricity generation, renewable energy and responsible energy use through engaging classroom lessons, digital resources, take-home energy kits and hands-on activities. The program also provides teachers with ready-to-use curriculum materials that align with educational standards and require minimal classroom preparation.

For communities that have participated, the benefits extend beyond the classroom.

“As a father and utility general manager in Willmar (Minnesota), it’s incredibly rewarding to see the impact this fifth-grade energy curriculum has on families in our community,” said Jeron Smith of Willmar Municipal Utilities.

“What stands out most is how well the lessons stick. Students retain practical knowledge, like remembering to shut off lights to conserve energy, and they apply it in their daily routines. It’s a meaningful way to spark curiosity, build lifelong habits and connect students to the role energy plays in their everyday lives,” Smith added.

What stands out most is how well the lessons stick. Students retain practical knowledge, like remembering to shut off lights to conserve energy, and they apply it in their daily routines. It’s a meaningful way to spark curiosity, build lifelong habits and connect students to the role energy plays in their everyday lives.

—Jeron Smith, utility general manager, Willmar Municipal Utilities

Participating utilities also find the program strengthens relationships with local schools and communities. Flandreau has offered the program for several years and continues to see strong engagement from students and educators.

“Teachers and students have provided overwhelming feedback that the Smart Energy Squad program delivers exciting and valuable knowledge of energy efficiency and generation to the classroom,” said Cohl Turnquist, city administrator for the City of Flandreau (South Dakota).

MRES covers half of the program costs with each member utility covering the other half. With that, students and teachers receive all materials at no cost, including workbooks, online resources, assessments and take-home energy efficiency kits containing LED bulbs, LED night lights and a digital thermometer.

With another school year on the horizon, MRES member utilities have an opportunity to educate future energy consumers. If interested, reach out to info@mrenergy.com and request Smart Energy Squad details or visit smartenergysquad.com.

“Investments in our youth are investments in our future. Providing fifth graders an opportunity to learn about responsible power generation and energy use will pay dividends while also helping parents, teachers and students better understand the work their local utility does to serve the community,” Turnquist said.