New Poquoson School is Environment Friendly.

It's back to school time which means new clothes, new supplies, new hair styles and in one case, a new school. Sept. 2, 2008 was the "first day of school" for the new elementary school in Poquoson. Located behind the old elementary school, the new 84,000 square feet facility boasts a full-size gym, cafeteria, media center and outdoor terrace. Among the eco-friendly features are a geothermal heating and cooling system, water conserving plumbing and clerestory windows to take advantage of natural light.

The school sits at the edge of the wetlands which teachers will be using to provide great "hands-on" learning opportunities for the students. Access to the wetlands as well as parts of the facilities (like the media center) will be available to the community during non-school hours.

Based on initial feedback, the new school is a big hit with students, faculty and parents.