Energy Saving Green Schools Create Green Scholars

Green schools not only make a big impact on the district’s budget, but also create green scholars as test scores rise for those surrounded by healthy environments.

“Schools spend more money on energy than books and computers combined,” says Merrilee Harrigan, vice president for education at the Alliance to Save Energy in Washington, D.C.

Smiling faces say it all, but don’t overlook the beautiful buildings.

Sidewell Friends Middle School:  90% reduced municipal water use; 60% less energy demand; 80% native plant species planted on site.

Sidewell Friends Middle School Platinum Leed Certification

Clearview Elementary School:  30% reduced water use; $18,000 yearly energy savings; 40% building materials manufactured within 500 miles of site.

Clearview Elementary School Gold Leed Certification

Rosa Parks Elementary School:  24% reduction in energy use; 3% of building materials manufactured regionally; 97% of construction waste diverted from the landfill.

Rosa Parks Elementary Gold Leed Certification

West Brazos Junior High School:  4, 5, and 7% point increase on mathematics, reading and social studies tests, respectively; built for 18% less than the average junior high school; 55% locally manufactured materials.

West Brazos Junior High School Leed Certified

Learn more about 50 for 50 Green School Caucus Initiative and the green school kits.

, , , ,