Designing Healthy, High-Performance Schools in a Changing Landscape
CE Pending

As schools pursue net zero, energy-efficient, and decarbonized buildings, architects play a critical role in supporting healthy, safe, and resilient learning environments. This session will discuss current trends shaping K-12 school decarbonization in nationally and locally in Oregon, including district-scale planning approaches, and using policies and technical guidance to align with the changing codes and district priorities landscape.

The presentation will discuss design strategies, technical approaches, and material considerations that reduce energy use and operational carbon while improving indoor air quality and thermal comfort. Several case studies from around Oregon will be highlighted to showcase how the architecture community can help districts shape their district priorities and goals to achieve a more efficient and resilient outcome.

Learning Objectives

Identify how net zero energy, electrification, and decarbonization strategies in K-12 schools directly support occupant health, safety, and wellness through improved indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and resilience.

Describe current trends shaping school decarbonization in Oregon and nationally, including district-scale planning approaches such as the Portland Public Schools decarbonization plan and how policy, codes, and funding influence project outcomes.

Evaluate real-world school case studies to understand effective design, phasing, and technical approaches that reduce energy use and operational carbon while maintaining safe, healthy learning environments.

Apply architect led processes, technical approaches, and material/product considerations that support and compliment district goals such as student and staff well-being, cost savings and energy efficiency.

Presenter

Reilly Loveland Falvey, Associate Director, Leadership & Market Development
New Buildings Institute

Reilly supports the project management team on various projects including the Prop 39 Zero Net Energy School Retrofit work in California, as well as other K-12 schools related work. The program’s focus is on drastic energy reduction via zero net energy retrofits and vigorous occupant engagement programs. Reilly also designs and develops NBI workshops, public engagement materials, and other technical and market transformation resources. Prior to joining NBI she worked for the Integrated Design Lab and Washington Green Schools doing research and energy analysis, developing and maintaining databases, as well as designing energy focused curriculum for K-12 schools. Reilly also has a background in finance and lending as a result of her work as a sustainability consultant for a Real Estate Investment Trust in Los Angeles, CA where she was the USGBC-LA Green Schools Co-Chair for all of Los Angeles County. She has a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Geophysics, Environmental Science and Resource Management from the University of Washington and holds certifications and licenses in Real Estate, ArcGIS, LEED and is a Green Classroom Professional (GCP).