Bellingham Public Schools Recognized by Department of Energy as Leader in K-12 Health and Energy Efficiency

Bellingham Public Schools (BPS) was recognized this summer by the U.S. Department of Energy for their efforts in improving energy efficiency and student health as part of the . BPS is one of only 17 K-12 schools and/or districts receiving national attention for this work.

The Efficient and Healthy Schools Campaign is an interagency effort between the U.S. Department of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Department of Education that provides recognition and technical assistance to school districts across the nation seeking to implement high-impact indoor air quality and efficiency improvements that will reduce energy bills and improve student and teacher health. This campaign was a learning opportunity connecting the district with national experts in HVAC and IAQ as well as districts that have implemented small and large scale change in recent years.

鈥淲e are proud of the work we have done over many years in Bellingham Public Schools to improve the health and efficiency of our systems,鈥 said chief operating officer Jessica Sankey. 鈥淲e continue to significantly lower our facility costs through targeted upgrades and investments, but also have developed a pathway to include students through teaching and learning strategies, and to invigorate all in our community through changing habits and building a culture of sustainability and resiliency.鈥

The 2022-23 recognition program featured two application tracks for schools and districts to submit for national recognition, a planning track and an implementation track. Bellingham Public Schools was honored with recognition in the strategic planning category. Notable efforts contributing to this recognition include the development of the district鈥檚 by the Sustainability Advisory Committee in the 2022-23 school year.

This unique distinction recognizes Bellingham Public Schools as a leader in K-12 energy efficiency, health, comfort, sustainability and resiliency, giving them the opportunity to build on their own success. It will also allow the community to catalyze support to continue district investment in school infrastructure. The 17 national winners each received a decal, plaque, and certificate from the Department of Energy noting their accomplishment.

According to the Department of Energy, schools represent the third largest sector of commercial building energy usage in the United States. School building energy consumption costs U.S. school districts more than $8 billion per year and produce emissions equivalent to 18 coal-fired powerplants.

一本道app the Efficient and Healthy Schools Campaign

The aims to motivate and empower K-12 schools to reduce energy costs and improve energy efficiency, health, and resilience. The campaign connects schools with practical solutions and provides technical assistance and resources to significantly improve school facilities. It is led by the U.S. Department of Energy Building Technologies Office with technical support from Berkeley Lab and New Buildings Institute.