RCS News

RCS Earns Gold for Going Green

(March 1, 2012) Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School District has been recognized by the EPA as an Energy Star Leader for achieving a 30-percent increase in energy efficiency over the 2005-2006 baseline. The district is one of only 18 schools in the state and approximately 200 schools and organizations nationwide to receive Energy Star Leader Status and one of only 2 schools in New York and 24 schools and organizations nationwide to achieve a 30-percent reduction. In the past year alone, RCS eliminated more than 700 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, the equivalent of planting more than 170 acres of trees annually.

The district's success in improving energy efficiency began with a commitment by the Board of Education, who appointed a district-wide energy manager to develop and implement a comprehensive energy management plan. The energy education manager to compiles and tracks energy data, identifies energy savings opportunities and oversees district-wide energy improvements.

To date, successful efficiency measures have included an increased focus on the maintenance of energy systems and equipment, the removal of unnecessary classroom appliances, upgrades to district lighting systems, the review and modification of indoor and outdoor lighting schedules and thermostat settings and the purchase of Energy Star qualified office equipment and appliances wherever possible.

RCS will continue to make strides in Energy Efficiency in an ongoing effort to reduce spending and establish sustainable energy practices for our community and our environment.