an open environment. The natural light, it helps kids to be able to focus better.” Every step of construction took sustainability into consideration. All of the materials, down to the countertops and tiles, feature a portion of recycled content. The light bulbs are not typical fluorescent bulbs one might expect but are rather T5 lighting. In the restrooms, metered faucets allow just enough time for students to wash their hands, and automatic hand dryers have been installed. This measure cuts down on the need for paper towels, thus reducing waste. Throughout the building, signs indicate recycling centers. These small hubs help to further reduce the amount of waste being sent to landfills and help teach students eco-responsibility at the same time.
“We will be working heavily
with this school on a green initiative teaching students to save energy, recycle and reduce
consumption,” Miller said. The school campus also includes
the new West Regional Branch of the Cumberland County Public Library system. “During the day, students will have access to the library,” Miller said. “In the evening (school doors) will be closed off to allow public access. The library will have a separate meter, so they pay for their own electricity.” The school isn’t just green on the
inside it’s green on the outside, too. Landscaping is designed with energy in mind.
From the solar panels on the roof to
the geothermal pipes beneath the ground, this school is completely green from top to bottom.CV
66 | Oct/Nov • 2010
