|
NEISD's brand new Cibolo Green Elementary School really is “green.” As Texas Public Radio’s Eileen Pace reports, the school offers an environmental education for students from the very youngest ages.
August 23, 2010 · Not only is the structure LEED-certified, but so is the furniture –- and the curriculum. Students will be taught a holistic curriculum, from the framework of sustainability and environmentally sound practices.
Dr. Ivonna Gonzales is principal of the new school.
“First grade is indoor air quality. Second grade is recycled materials. Third -- water efficiency. Fourth grade -- energy resources, and fifth grade is design and innovation. Those are the six components for LEED certification, which our school is working towards,” Gonzales said.
Many parts of the building itself provide learning tools, such as the starry night ceiling with the Big Dipper outlined in lights. A wall cutout in the hallway offers a cross-section view of the various infrastructure elements such as vent and drain pipes, metal framing, and electrical conduit.
Gonzales said future plans call for a gardening curriculum so students may learn about organic farming. They may even grow their own school lunches.
Northside ISD also has a green school this year. Martin Elementary opened its doors for the first time Monday.
| 
