The Ministry of Education and World Wildlife Fund have partnered to encourage participation in Earth Hour. According to the Earth Hour Web site, Earth Hour was created to take a stand against the greatest threat the planet has ever faced. Earth Hour uses the simple action of turning off the lights for one hour to deliver a powerful message about the need for action on global warming. As a result, at 8:00 p.m. March 29, 2008, millions of people in some of the world’s major capital cities, including Copenhagen, Toronto, Chicago, Melbourne, Brisbane and Tel Aviv will unite and switch off for Earth Hour.

At schools and offices, the need for student and staff safety remains a priority. Attention will be taken to ensure there is enough natural light in classrooms, hallways, offices and other areas within the building. At the Education Centre and affiliate sites, Earth Hour will be supported by turning off non-emergency lights from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on Friday, March 28, 2008.

The Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board serves approximately 17,100 students each day at 46 elementary and 8 secondary schools. Supporting student achievement is the goal of approximately 1,800 teaching and support staff who, in addition to the contributions of caring volunteers and community partners, share their passion for teaching and learning. The district covers a wide geographical area of 7,221 square kilometres bordered by Maynooth to the north, Deseronto to the east, Prince Edward County to the south and Quinte West to the west.

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For more information, contact:
• Kerry Donnell, Communications Officer, (613) 966-1170 or 1 800 267-4350, extension 2354