Rebuilding Holyoke: Revitalizing Urban Neighborhoods through Education and Engagement

In order for the green movement to be successful, it is necessary for society to be aware and to participate on all levels. Holyoke is a city of the working class and there are several vocational programs available offering job-specific training. Unfortunately, these programs pay little attention to the environmental issues associated with their trade; and, as issues of global warming are becoming more pertinent, the vocational curriculum remains disconnected. To promote sustainable awareness and participation among vocational students in Holyoke, a new campus located in the downtown neighborhood will be introduced to the school system. In this new green vocational school, students from multiple disciplines will come together to engage in the sustainable practice of their trade. Given the decaying state of the downtown neighborhoods, the urban landscape will serve as a canvas for new ideas and projects. Through the collaboration of these vocations, students will be able to demonstrate their knowledge addressing real projects while contributing to the social and physical revitalization of downtown Holyoke