Chicago Board of Education Approves Resolution Launching Healthy Green Schools Pilot Program

Chicago Board of Education Approves Resolution Launching Healthy Green Schools Pilot Program

Plan will modernize CPS buildings, prioritize student health, and advance environmental equity

CHICAGO – During its June meeting, the Chicago Board of Education (Board) unanimously approved a resolution to launch a Healthy Green Schools Pilot Program that aims to invest in clean energy and building electrification projects across 12 neighborhood schools by fiscal year 2026.

The resolution prioritizes student health, fiscal responsibility, and equity—placing Chicago Public Schools (CPS) on a path to becoming a national leader in sustainable, healthy school infrastructure.

Aligned with its 2024–2029 Together We Rise Strategic Plan, the District is advancing 21st century learning environments by pursuing consistent public and private capital funding to support facility upgrades, green schools, and renewable energy solutions.

“As we make critical decisions about CPS’ capital investments, this resolution ensures we’re not only upgrading our facilities but doing so in a way that safeguards student health through mold, lead, and asbestos removal—while also combating environmental injustices and preparing our young people for careers in a greener economy,” said Board Member, and chief sponsor for the resolution, Anusha Thotakura. Board Members Ebony DeBerry, Yesenia Lopez, and Karen Zaccor are cosponsors.

Through the pilot, CPS aims to implement clean energy systems such as rooftop solar panels, heat pumps, and geothermal technology at selected schools. These projects are expected to yield long-term cost savings by leveraging available state and federal incentives—including renewable energy credits and direct pay tax credits.

CPS will reinvest energy savings directly back into school facilities through a new Healthy Green Schools Fund, supporting critical upgrades like filtered water fountains, mold and asbestos remediation, and water damage repairs—particularly in historically disinvested areas.

“This pilot builds on the momentum of our recent national recognition as the first school district to earn a Gold Certification under the Healthy Green Schools and Colleges Standard,” said CPS Chief Operating Officer Charles Mayfield. “Rather than focusing on large-scale capital projects, we are making targeted upgrades, such as energy-efficient equipment, building automation systems, and improved ventilation, that deliver meaningful impact.

The Board approved this resolution as CPS prepares to finalize its upcoming capital budget, positioning clean energy and electrification projects as a central priority. The timing also coincides with an influx of available state and federal clean energy incentives, offering a strategic opportunity to reduce upfront costs and generate long-term savings.

“This isn’t an added expense—it’s a more strategic use of capital funds,” said Board Member Yesenia Lopez. “By investing in clean energy today, CPS can reduce utility and maintenance costs over time—allowing more resources to flow to our students.”

What the Resolution Aims to Accomplish

Launch at least 12 clean energy and electrification projects in environmental justice communities by fiscal year 2026, focusing on areas most affected by pollution.

Create a Green Schools Revolving Fund to reinvest energy savings into school health upgrades, such as filtered water fountains, mold and asbestos removal, and better air quality.

Build career and technical education into all pilot projects, giving CPS students hands-on experience in green construction and clean energy fields.

Expand collaboration with labor partners to ensure projects use local workers and offer workforce training for CPS students.

A Commitment to Health, Equity, and Climate Leadership

The Healthy Green Schools Pilot is about putting students first. Many CPS students attend school in older buildings where environmental conditions like outdated pipes, moisture issues, or limited ventilation can impact learning.

“This initiative sets a higher standard,” said Board Member Karen Zaccor. “At its heart, it’s about creating safe, healthy learning environments for every student–-particularly those in historically under-resourced communities.”

By turning school buildings into sustainability learning labs, CPS is not only cutting emissions and saving money—it’s helping students build the skills they need to lead in tomorrow’s clean economy.

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