Kern High School District students are getting the opportunity to learn about solar energy, design, and installation through a week long Solar Energy Academy.

The academy, sponsored by SunPower, is being held at Bakersfield College.

Students are receiving work-based experience designing a solar system for a home, attending a field trip, and hearing from guest lecturers.

"I'm excited because I think this is an opportunity that kids would never get to do,” West High School teacher Carrie Newsman said. “To have hands on activities and job skills at the same time.”

Thirty-two incoming high school juniors from West and Independence High Schools are participating.