High School students around the nation positively impact their hometown communities, including two shining examples, Claire and Glaire Antonio of Lindsay, California. This set of fraternal twin sisters, recent graduates of Harmony Magnet Academy, have spent the last four years honing the skill sets that will prepare them for life beyond graduation, including skills learned through solar!
As Pathway students through Porterville Unified School District, both girls received the opportunity to participate in internships, teaching valuable skills and creating opportunities through industry exposure. Both Glaire and Claire have a combined total of 21 internship experiences through programs like Toys for Tots, the Porterville Animal Shelter, and a weeklong Solar Science Academy hosted by SunPower.
Their first internship was participating in GRID Alternatives’ Solar Futures program, which offers hands on experience installing solar systems for low-income families within their communities. Work-Based Learning Coordinator Ruben Alverez, called GRID “the launching pad” that helped encourage these two young ladies to build their confidence and come out of their shells. Splicing rails and wire management were among their favorite tasks during the installs.
Claire shared she will always remember the GRID safety rules, “Never walk backwards and always yell HEADACHE if something is falling from the roof.” By participating in solar installations, the girls gained a deeper understanding for renewable energy and the environmental impact that it has. Glaire stated, “It’s exciting to know that we can help our environment if we turn to solar. Not only is it efficient energy, there are no bad byproducts.”
Upon graduation, both Claire and Glaire are preparing to take their next steps. With the inspiration and support of their parents, the girls are looking forward to entering the medical field. Following in their mother’s footsteps, Glaire plans to major in Nursing and Claire is seeking her degree in Nursing and Biological Sciences. The girls are very grateful for the experience they gained through GRID Alternatives and the education they received through the wonderful teachers and staff at Harmony Magnet Academy and Porterville United School District Pathways Program. Now proud owners of a solar system themselves, they are excited to reduce their carbon footprint and ensure to a brighter future for all.