How do we empower the engineers of the future? By getting them involved with the tech of today. At Firstfloor and SfL+a Architects we aim to provide schools that do more than just serve as a building. Our goal is to create schools that not only provide for the health and safety of each student but also educates them on the energy efficient technology powering the building. At our energy positive schools, each student has access to the school’s energy dashboard which tracks metrics like water and electricity usage, how much energy is generated by our solar panel, the temperature of water entering our geothermal field, and even the weather. Furthermore, students have the opportunity to develop energy and/or cost saving ideas for their school building. This instills pride for one’s school and adds excitement for learning.
A lot of things factor in to how students learn, including their sense of security. Most will agree that if a child doesn’t feel safe in their learning environment, they could experience a significant drop in their ability to focus. SfL+a Architects and Firstfloor’s energy positive schools are not only heavily equipped with energy positive features but safety features as well. Single point entranceways prevent unauthorized individuals from gaining access to the school; and straight corridors allow faculty to better monitor students using the hallways ensuring that they arrive safely to their destination. Energy conserving features such as LED lights also assist with limiting distractions like poorly lit rooms.
Energy positive facilities, generate cost savings, which means for every dollar saved in energy costs, a school can invest in books, technology and curriculums. “If creating energy efficient schools give students the opportunity to learn and grow in a healthy, safe, and tech-innovative environment, then we can at the end of the day, say job well done.”, stated Robbie Ferris.