PPL’s Susquehanna power plant has offered a weeklong program for teachers about nuclear energy for three decades, earning accolades from legislators and industry organizations.

Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia) and Sen. Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne) each recognized PPL’s Nuclear Energy Seminar for Teachers for 30 years of providing educators with an in-depth view of nuclear energy that they have been able to share with hundreds of students.

The American Nuclear Society also recognized the long-term benefits of educating teachers about the electric industry with a plaque presented to Joe Scopelliti, Susquehanna community relations manager, who has been involved with the program since its early days.

The Nuclear Energy Institute also plans to feature PPL Susquehanna’s NEST program in publications and on its Facebook site.

“We’re honored to have received so much attention for our program that helps teachers provide accurate and balanced information about nuclear energy,” said Scopelliti, who accepted the awards on behalf of the PPL employees who have taught the seminar over the years. “We also appreciate the valued expertise of Dr. David Simpson from Bloomsburg University who helps organize and teach the course.”

NEST is a five-day course offered each summer for teachers of students in Grades K-12.Experts from the Susquehanna power plant and Bloomsburg University provide educators with objective, up-to-date information about the fundamentals of nuclear power, emerging use of nuclear isotopes in the medical field, and the safe and secure operation of PPL’s Susquehanna nuclear power plant.

Activities include experiments and hands-on activities that can be easily transferred to the classroom as well as a plant perimeter tour and visits to various buildings including the plant’s control room simulator and environmental lab.

“The teachers expressed their appreciation for learning more about this important industry and how they can share the benefits and challenges with their students,” said Alana Roberts, PPL community affairs specialist and program coordinator.

Teachers from around the state have been able to meet continuing education requirements at the Susquehanna Energy Information Center through programs such as NEST and Teaching Environmental Awareness workshops.

To find out more about programs, visit PPL Preserves webpage and view the calendar of events.

8/27/2012