OFCC Receives National Award for Green Schools Program
On September 28, the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission (OFCC) was presented a leadership award at the Greenbuild International Conference and Expo in Washington DC.
The award recognizes organizations that have demonstrated outstanding vision, leadership, and commitment to significantly advance the green building industry.
“This recognition shows Ohio as a global leader in building efficient schools for students, teachers, and administrators,” said Kimberly Murnieks, OFCC Chair and Director of the Ohio Office of Budget and Management (OBM). “Ohio is proud that our students have the opportunity to learn in schools that enhance their well-being, attendance, and academic performance.”
The OFCC has transformed K-12 schools through the adoption of Leadership in Energy and Design (LEED®) schools, certifying an impressive 421 projects to date. LEED® schools are designed to use 35% less energy and an average of 30% less water than other buildings.
“When Ohio adopted LEED® as the standard for the state’s K-12 building in 2007, our initial focus was on energy savings. Since then, our school districts have benefited not only from financial savings but also from meeting standards that make school buildings healthier and more engaging places to learn,” said OFCC Executive Director Cheryl J. Lyman.