Latin School of Chicago

"I believe that climate change – and all the associated issues from food production and water availability to border disputes and even wars – is the most important topic for us to address with kids in schools today." — Head of School Don Firke was enthusiastic and Nagle HartrayTrustees, after realizing so was the school's Board of the additional initial cost of being green would be recovered many times over in the long run. While the middle school is not actually LEED-certified because of the complexity and expense of the certification process in those early days, it follows LEED guidelines. Some of the innovations include a green roof that regulates the temperature in the building, reduces carbon dioxide emissions and limits water run-off. Special insulation and glazing for windows, exterior sun shades, energy-efficient lighting, occupancy sensors and timers controlling lights, energy-friendly air conditioning, heating and water systems, and rubber flooring, linoleum coverings and furniture made out of recycled materials also were included. The success of the middle school project and the benefits of having an energy-efficient building have gone a long way to speeding up the school's progress. "It's a changing of culture and the willingness to make sacrifices," explains Brown. "Green costs green, and it is sometimes a challenge for people to accept that the school is putting resources toward something that they can't immediately see. The key is to balance being fiscally responsible with being environmentally responsible." Latin gradually has been switching to energy-efficient computers, printers and copiers, green seal cleaning supplies, and recycled paper products. It has streamlined printed materials with a move to more electronic communications. Styrofoam has disappeared from all three cafeterias, and since eliminating plastic water bottles, Latin is putting about 100,000 fewer plastic bottles into landfill each year. Reusable mugs, cups and utensils have largely replaced disposables. The school has made a commitment to use food distributors who provide locally grown fruits and vegetables. And, during the fall of 2008, 33 solar panels were installed on the upper school roof, which generate more than 7,000 watts of electricity, enough to power more than 200 fluorescent lights. Plans are under way to expand the system and add a smaller green roof to the upper school in the near future. Changing Habits With facilities change, comes the realization that Latin can only be successful in its efforts toward reducing its environmental footprint if everyone in the school community is involved. As director of Student Life, Tim Cronister has been addressing the issue with students. Latin also has decreased the use of copy paper throughout the school by 2%, a savings of 50,000 sheets of paper or 60 trees. 16 Latin Magazine

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