News:
Green Schools Advocacy Circle
More than 20% of America goes to school every day. Not only do learning environments have a profound impact on the health and well-being of our children, they represent a tremendous lever for mainstreaming green building practices into homes and offices around the U.S. that have not yet been connected to the green building movement.
Green schools cost less to operate, freeing up resources to truly improve students’ education. Their carefully planned acoustics and abundant daylight make it easier and more comfortable for students to learn. Their clean indoor air cuts down sick days and gives our children a head start for a healthy, prosperous future. And their innovative design provides a wealth of hands-on learning opportunities.
Across the United States, school districts large and small are realizing the benefits of building with LEED for Schools. Students, parents, teachers and community members are making the difference, by letting elected officials know they want their schools built green.
Our Vision: Green schools within this generation for every child in America.
Next Meeting: Thursday, November 11, 2010 at Kent ISD, Education Service Center from 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Everyone is welcome to join us. Please RVSP Renae Hesselink at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it if you plan on attending.
What Can You Do Immediately?
- This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
- Visit Center for Green Schools website for resources
- Take the Green Schools Pledge
- Become familiar with LEED for Schools
- Talk to your school district, PTA group, legislator and we can help prepare you.
The Mayor's Alliance for Green Schools - Mayor George Heartwell, City of Grand Rapids was one of the original Mayors putting forth this call to other Mayors around the country.
- Influential Mayor's partner with USGBC to advance green schools - initial press release from October 2008
- January 2009 Exeuctive Summary
Resources:
- National Clearing House for Educational Facilities
- Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE)
- EPA Energy Star Portfolio Manager
- Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE)
- American College & University President's Climate Commitment (ACUPCC)
- Greening Existing Schools Project Management Guide
- Greening Existing Schools Implementation Workbook
- The Paid-From-Savings Guide to Green Existing Buildings - Executive Summary
For more information contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , Green Schools Advocate for USGBCWM
Mission: To transform the way buildings and communities are designed, built and operated, in a way that improves the quality of life in West Michigan.




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