Five years ago, CT's ministry Bethany School began an arduous process to replace several of its buildings with the highest in sustainable design and construction. The school's two academic buildings, Bethel 3-8 and Bethleh
em K -2, both designed by architects at emersion DESIGN, have now officially achieved LEED-Platinum certification from U.S.G.B.C. This highest LEED status makes them the most energy-efficient school building designs in the Midwest!
The rigorous standards set by this accomplishment include goals for efficient energy, water and waste, stormwater management, recycled and locally-sourced materials, and indoor air quality. Key features include 108 geothermal exchange wells which help reduce heating/cooling costs, while 322 total solar panels power the buildings with completely renewable energy. The certification also includes the "School as a Teaching Tool" credit, whereby 100% of the school's teaching faculty worked to complete their Green Classroom Professional Certification, and an implementation plan is underway to provide a minimum of 10 hours of sustainability curriculum per year to every student at Bethany School.