Green schools for everyone within this generation.Westview K-8 Duval County School -- LEED Gold ... hurricane shelter ... autistic wing ... and came in under school district's long-term energy goal! When you look at many of our schools today, you see outdated buildings in need of repairs, burdened with unsafe toxins, dwindling budgets and outdated resources. The picture is not pretty. The USGBC Center for Green Schools 2016 State of Our Schools Report and below infographic proves this sorry state. But USGBC has a better vision: green schools for everyone within this generation. By promoting the design and construction of green schools, and by greening the operations and maintenance of existing schools, we can make a tremendous impact on student health, school operational costs and the environment. Show more... Twenty-five percent of Americans go to school each day as a student, employee or volunteer. Additionally, Americans spend 90% of their time indoors. There is zero question that teaching students the importance of healthy buildings is of critical importance. Every day homes and schools impact a child's respiratory health and ability to concentrate and perform. Studies show that green schools, in particular LEED certified schools, result in fewer asthma attacks, reduced sick days, increased teacher satisfaction, increased school spirit, and even increased test scores. That is why USGBC Florida focuses on the following Green School priorities: Galaxy Elementary in Palm Beach County ... LEED Platinum ... That is why USGBC National launched Center for Green Schools which focuses on:
Where We Learn Matters
"We Learn Here and Where We Learn Matters" (:30 Spot) from Center for Green Schools on Vimeo. Green Apple Day of Service
GADS gives parents, teachers, students, companies and local organizations the opportunity to transform schools into healthy, safe and productive learning environments through local service projects. Check out project ideas, pick up helpful event resources, find an event in your area, and register your 2016 project today! In 2015, volunteers from the seven Regions of the USGBC Florida Chapter contributed significant support and energy to this worthwhile cause. But we can do better! Mark Saturday, September 24, 2016, on your calendar as a day set aside to will join hundreds of Floridians making a hands-on difference by greening schools in your community. In addition to the links above, reach out to info@usgbcflorida.org with questions. The Green Classroom Professional CertificateThe Green Classroom Professional (GCP) Certificate program provides preK-12 educators and school staff with the knowledge to identify what supports or impedes healthy, resource efficient and environmentally sustainable learning spaces. The course and exam help participants recognize, adopt, and implement practices that keep teachers and students focused, alert and ready to learn. Learn more ... LEED Lab
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