Imagine schools not only as centers of learning but as beacons of sustainability, fostering healthier and greener environments for our children. This is the vision behind Collaborative for High-Performance Schools (CHPS), an organization with revolutionary programs that aims to transform K-12 schools into eco-friendly havens of education.

The Role of CHPS in K-12 Schools

At its core, the CHPS criteria encompasses various aspects of sustainability within educational spaces. This multifaceted strategy within the criteria addresses energy, water, and material efficiency. In addition, the criteria ensure schools are well-lit, thermally comfortable, acoustically sound, safe, healthy, and easy to operate. 

The benefits of adopting CHPS in K-12 schools are vast. Energy-efficient buildings result in reduced operational costs, allowing schools to allocate resources to impactful programs. Many of the improvements outlined in CHPS criteria are designed to improve the health and productivity of students and staff. CHPS helps school districts reach their sustainability goals while creating positive ripple effects throughout the community.

ID360’s Impactful CHPS Consulting

ID360 is an industry leader when it comes to sustainability and the built environment. This is why we provide technical design support for those looking to implement the CHPS standards. We have consulted on numerous CHPS projects working directly with the school districts as well as the lead architects. 

ID360 worked with Barker Vilar Architects in the remodeling of Richmond High School in the West Contra Costa Unified School District. The Richmond High School renovation project included a new 22,000-square-foot gymnasium and a new 30,000-square-foot classroom building. The project has been designed using the CHPS New Construction and Major Modernization Criteria.

We have also worked with Quattroccki Quok Architects on the renovation of Fremont High School in Oakland, California providing the support needed to integrate innovation and sustainable features. This project included a new gym and modular classroom building.

In our work with Franklin Elementary School & Huntington Park High School, both in the Los Angeles Unified School District, we collaborated with the district and GGA Architects to develop a sustainable design plan that incorporated energy-efficient systems and green building materials. We prepared a strategic implementation of all the CHPS criteria for both schools and supported GGA with the CHPS submittal process. 

Paving the Way for Greener, Healthier Learning Environments

In a world where environmental challenges are becoming increasingly urgent, the importance of environmentally friendly learning environments cannot be overstated. CHPS has emerged as an innovative solution that seamlessly merges education and sustainability.

District sustainability managers and architects have the power to shape the future of education with the help of green building practices. By collaborating with ID360 and embracing CHPS guidelines, you can pave the way for greener, healthier learning environments. Seize the current funding cycle as an opportunity to bring about lasting change. Together, we can build a brighter future—one school district at a time.


If you are ready to embark on a journey toward a green school, explore our portfolio of transformative projects and discover the potential of CHPS. Learn more about how CHPS can revolutionize education and create sustainable school environments for the next generation. Visit our CHPS Consulting Page to get started today.