DMPS One of 60 Districts Selected for U.S. Energy Program
Energy efficiency at Des Moines Public Schools has long been a priority in our school buildings and facilities. In fact, for the past 13 years, DMPS has been honored as an ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy, national recognition for the district’s work to reduce energy use, save public funds, and improve the environment.
Now, DMPS has been selected by the U.S. Department of Energy as one of only 60 school districts in the nation – and one of two in Iowa – to participate in a program to develop energy-saving strategies, create healthier learning environments and achieve even greater cost savings. The Energy Champions Leading the Advancement of Sustainable Schools (Energy CLASS) program is comprised of districts serving more than 1.7 million students at 2,922 schools in 31 states. Participating school districts will receive training, coaching and expert guidance to develop projects that prioritize energy efficiency, renewable energy use, and improved indoor air quality, serving as models for other school districts across the country.
“DMPS is honored to be selected to participate in the Energy CLASS program,” said Tyler Puls, energy and environmental specialist at DMPS. “I am excited to learn and network with professionals across the country to build on our success with the ENERGY STAR program and further our commitment to providing efficient and sustainable facilities.”
Congratulations to the Operations team at Des Moines Public Schools for having their good work recognized once again at the national level.
The U.S. Department of Energy’s press release, along with links to additional information about the program, follows:
Renew America’s Schools Announces 60 Local Educational Agencies to Participate in 2024-2025 Energy CLASS Program
Energy management and training program will support 60 Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) in their pursuit of fostering healthier, more sustainable schools.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), in partnership with the Efficient and Healthy Schools Program, today announced the 60 LEAs chosen to participate in the 2024-2025 Energy Champions Leading the Advancement of Sustainable Schools (Energy CLASS) program. Backed by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this strategic initiative supports the Biden-Harris administration’s broader Action Plan for Building Better School Infrastructure by empowering schools across the nation to implement energy-saving strategies, create healthier learning environments and achieve significant cost savings.
The 60 selected LEAs, representing over 1.7 million students in 2,922 schools across 31 states, will receive training, coaching, and expert guidance to develop and execute projects prioritizing energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption and improved indoor air quality. By fostering a network of dedicated “energy champions” within the participating LEAs, the Energy CLASS program will drive sustainable practices and create scalable energy solutions that schools around the country can look to.
Across all applications submitted, LEAs from 31 states, representing over 2.2 million students, identified compelling energy infrastructure and sustainability needs. Due to this widespread demand and a competitive field of applicants, DOE increased the number of LEAs selected from 50 to 60, further strengthening the peer-learning structure and impact of the program. Participants were ultimately chosen for submitting applications that demonstrated a dedication creating impactful or scalable energy plans and sustainability goals that align with the goals of DOE and can be successfully supported through the Energy CLASS program.