Sustainability
The 9-R School District will demonstrate a commitment to the responsible stewardship of community resources through transparent and measurable sustainability strategies that:
- Promote healthy and safe learning environments,
- Facilitate energy and resource conservation within District operations,
- Are fiscally responsible, and
- Invite engagement and collaboration with stakeholders.
ENERGY AUDIT 2022
Durango 9-R School District performed an energy usage audit to establish a baseline understanding of energy use prior to any 4A Bond upgrade. Once all bond work is completed, another study will be conducted to understand how effective the new building upgrades are at reducing energy consumption.
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School Solar Projects
Plain text version: School Solar Projects
Overview
Our district has partnered with local contractors to construct three carport and four rooftop solar systems at six district schools. This combined solar investment, coupled with LED lighting and building-envelope upgrades, is projected to save the district millions of dollars in utility costs over the next 20 years. This investment completely pays for the project and includes additional net savings in the general budget.
Schools with Rooftop Solar
- Durango High School
- Miller Middle School
- Park Elementary School
- Impact Career Innovation Center
Schools with Carport Solar
- Animas Valley Elementary School
- Escalante Middle School
- Park Elementary School
FundingThe solar projects were funded by a budget-neutral, tax-exempt, lease-purchase agreement. By utilizing this kind of purchase agreement, the district can fund the solar energy upgrades by utilizing funds that are already allocated in our utility budget.
Future Impact
While the general fund debt-service payments increase, the cost of utilities paid from the general fund decreases, creating a neutral impact on our district budget. Eventually, this energy plan will produce a cost savings to the district in the form of decreased utilities as well as rebates.
Other Sustainability Projects
Schools also received LED lighting upgrades and building-envelope improvements.
#WeDreamInGreen