Guidelines for Texas School Construction Endorsed by Leading Environmental Group

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Austin—Oct. 21, 2008) Environmental Defense Fund urged Texas schools today to adopt proposed guidelines promoting the development of energy efficient school buildings. The guidelines, under public review until November 21, are part of Texas CHPS Criteria (TX-CHPS), a program designed to ensure sustainable development and construction of Texas schools.

Experts say that improved classroom settings result in higher student test scores and attendance rates, greater employee retention, reduced environmental impacts and lower operating costs. 

“If all districts incorporate TX-CHPS into the design and construction of their new buildings, students will be more academically prepared and districts will save money on facility operating costs,” said Thomas Glenn, clean energy policy specialist for Environmental Defense Fund. “This is a great opportunity for Texas public school districts to invest in the future of high-quality schools.”

The program will not only focus on the construction of new environmentally responsible schools, but will also recommend upgrades for existing schools. If schools choose to adopt TX-CHPS, they will be guided through the implementation process with help from the CHPS organization and a Texas advisory committee, which worked to develop the program.