In the Carlsbad Unified School District (CUSD), we aim for green. Green is not only the color of proficient and advanced scores on standardized tests, it also represents our commitment to be environmentally conscious. I'm happy to report that both campaigns are going well.
In 2009, our school board adopted an Energy Management Conservation Policy affirming a joint responsibility that “Every person is expected to be an 'energy saver' as well as an 'energy consumer.' “
Saving Natural and Financial Resources
Thanks to these joint efforts, the District received an Environmental Excellence Award for a 20 percent cost savings the first year after the program was initiated. Not only are we conserving electricity, gas and water, but the money saved is helping to support other student-based programs.
From March 2009 to September 2012, the District reduced more than 2,071 metric tons of carbon dioxide. This is equivalent to 372 automobiles not being driven for a full year, or the growth of 52,965 tree seedlings over 10 years.
A large portion of the savings is attributable to central control and continuous monitoring of temperatures and HVAC operation throughout facilities. Temperatures are set and maintained according to District guidelines to maximize energy efficiency and ensure that systems are shut down during unoccupied times. Employees practice conservation measures such as keeping doors closed to optimize HVAC operations.
Students Take a Lead Green Role
Recycling also plays a major role on our campuses. Many schools collect and recycle plastic, aluminum, paper and cardboard.
In 2011, the Carlsbad Charitable Foundation awarded a $10,000 grant to Jefferson and Kelly Elementary Schools' Carlsbad Kids Go Green program. A similar program is underway at Magnolia Elementary School.
The funds have been used to start a campus-wide recycling and zero-waste lunch program that promotes a culture of good habits. For example, recycling containers have been placed in every classroom and common area. Lunch carts contain receptacles so students can separate liquid and solid food waste products. Utensil dispensers have been installed, eliminating the need for cellophane-wrapped kits, composters and other items that generate more trash.
At Kelly, under the leadership of teacher Lorelei Kelleher, fourth and fifth grade “Green Keepers” collect recyclables from each classroom, then sort them in their “Green Keeper Den.” The Green Keepers also compost lunchtime fruit and vegetable waste, turning “spoil into soil” for the school's garden.
Kelleher notes, “Going green ties into our environmental earth and life science standards taught throughout the grade levels. We're hoping to teach and inspire our youth to 'think green' so they can in turn teach and inspire their families and future generations.”
We invite you to use our District's free online tool at http://mygreenquest.com/carlsbadusdca to track and analyze energy usage of your home or business. To learn more about our overall conservation programs, visit http://www.carlsbadusd.k12.ca.us/energy.html.
In 2009, our school board adopted an Energy Management Conservation Policy affirming a joint responsibility that “Every person is expected to be an 'energy saver' as well as an 'energy consumer.' “
Saving Natural and Financial Resources
Thanks to these joint efforts, the District received an Environmental Excellence Award for a 20 percent cost savings the first year after the program was initiated. Not only are we conserving electricity, gas and water, but the money saved is helping to support other student-based programs.
From March 2009 to September 2012, the District reduced more than 2,071 metric tons of carbon dioxide. This is equivalent to 372 automobiles not being driven for a full year, or the growth of 52,965 tree seedlings over 10 years.
A large portion of the savings is attributable to central control and continuous monitoring of temperatures and HVAC operation throughout facilities. Temperatures are set and maintained according to District guidelines to maximize energy efficiency and ensure that systems are shut down during unoccupied times. Employees practice conservation measures such as keeping doors closed to optimize HVAC operations.
Students Take a Lead Green Role
Recycling also plays a major role on our campuses. Many schools collect and recycle plastic, aluminum, paper and cardboard.
In 2011, the Carlsbad Charitable Foundation awarded a $10,000 grant to Jefferson and Kelly Elementary Schools' Carlsbad Kids Go Green program. A similar program is underway at Magnolia Elementary School.
The funds have been used to start a campus-wide recycling and zero-waste lunch program that promotes a culture of good habits. For example, recycling containers have been placed in every classroom and common area. Lunch carts contain receptacles so students can separate liquid and solid food waste products. Utensil dispensers have been installed, eliminating the need for cellophane-wrapped kits, composters and other items that generate more trash.
At Kelly, under the leadership of teacher Lorelei Kelleher, fourth and fifth grade “Green Keepers” collect recyclables from each classroom, then sort them in their “Green Keeper Den.” The Green Keepers also compost lunchtime fruit and vegetable waste, turning “spoil into soil” for the school's garden.
Kelleher notes, “Going green ties into our environmental earth and life science standards taught throughout the grade levels. We're hoping to teach and inspire our youth to 'think green' so they can in turn teach and inspire their families and future generations.”
We invite you to use our District's free online tool at http://mygreenquest.com/carlsbadusdca to track and analyze energy usage of your home or business. To learn more about our overall conservation programs, visit http://www.carlsbadusd.k12.ca.us/energy.html.