Josh Clearman’s physics class at Key West High School is a winner in the Governor’s Serve to Preserve: Green Schools Awards program. This program recognizes the efforts of students, teachers, classrooms, schools and school districts in creating healthy, efficient and productive places for learning. More than 125 applications were received in 4 categories. Winners were announced Wednesday, October 7, 2009, at the Embassy Suites/University of South Florida in Tampa. The winners represented schools from throughout Florida including: Pasco, Monroe, Brevard and Broward counties.

The awards event recognized not only the five winners, but all of the 15 finalists recently announced by Governor Crist. Each of the five winners received a $1,500 cash award and finalists received $500.

Mr. Clearman and his class have created an Alternative Energy Center to help students adopt emerging green technology. Mr. Clearman’s class produced biodiesel on a small scale and even had a car donated by a member of the community to use as a test model for biodiesel. Mr. Clearman has divided the students into groups - mechanic, research, public relations, artistic and facilitators to take their project to the next level.

Pictured is Dave Perkins, Assistant Principal, Key West High, Josh Clearman, winning Physics teacher, Key West High, Dr. Debra Walker, School Board , and Michael Zavosky, Florida Department of Educational Protection.

• Link to Governor's Press Release - October 7, 2009