America’s K-12 school infrastructure was given a nearly failing D grade from the American Society of Civil Engineers. A survey conducted by the GAO found that more than half of the school districts nationwide need to replace HVAC and other systems in their buildings.
Our children and teachers deserve better!
The Renew America’s School Program, supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, is providing grants to K-12 schools to make needed infrastructure improvements and energy upgrades that will lower costly electricity bills and create healthy and comfortable learning environments for students and school staff. This successful grant program has already distributed over $372.5 million (75% of the funds) to fund energy upgrades at over 500 school facilities that will benefit nearly 300,000 students and 20,000 teachers. The funds could be exhausted in the next grant round in 2025, and more financial support is needed.
Tell Congress to increase funding for the Renew America’s School Program, so we can ensure our students have access to healthy, efficient, and resilient learning environments that they deserve.
Why This Matters:
- Healthier Learning Environments: More than half of the school districts nationwide need to replace HVAC and other systems in their buildings. Upgrades to infrastructure can improve indoor air quality and create healthier learning spaces for students and staff.
- Energy and Cost Savings: Energy is typically the second largest expense for schools after staffing. By making our schools more energy efficient, they can reduce energy costs and redirect funds away from burdensome electricity bills and back into student learning.
- Assistance for disadvantaged communities: The grant supports the Justice 40 Initiative and prioritizes schools in disadvantaged communities (DACs), including those serving rural and tribal communities, where investment in school infrastructure is most needed. In the 2024 awards, over 94% of funded schools serve populations where more than half of the students qualify for Free-and-Reduced-Price Lunch, ensuring that the benefits reach those who need them the most.
- Job Creation and Economic Growth: Investing in school infrastructure creates good local jobs. Eighty-eight percent of Selectees will offer workforce training. Sixty-three percent of Selectees have made commitments to engage local labor, contributing to local economies while improving our schools.
How You Can Help: Tell your legislators to support increased funding and expansion of the Renew America’s Schools Grant to ensure that every child has access to a modern, healthy, and energy-efficient learning environment. This investment not only enhances educational outcomes but also sets the stage for a sustainable future. Our children and communities deserve nothing less.