Austin Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rewarded Round Rock ISD’s maintenance team for its energy efficiency throughout the current school year.

Round Rock ISD received a $92,288 rebate check, presented by Elaina Ball, Austin Energy deputy general manager and chief operating officer, at the District’s April 20 Board of Trustees meeting in recognition of participation in energy efficiency programs.

“Round Rock ISD has been one of the most valuable partners from the school districts around the Austin area, partnering with Austin Energy to help save energy, save on their energy bills and help conserve resources,” said Elaina Ball, Austin Energy Chief Operating Office. “This is a significant accomplishment by the District, facilities, staff and the schools.”

Austin Energy presented the District with funds after choosing energy efficient systems at Live Oak, Jollyville and Pond Springs elementary schools and Westwood High School. The District also participated in The Austin Energy Load Share program, which reduced energy demand on peak days in the summer.

“We are proud to have innovative leaders in our operations and maintenance departments who seize cost saving opportunities for our District,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steve Flores said. “With the help of this cost savings, we are able to allocate those funds to further support our instruction to ensure student success.”

In addition to the District’s rebate, 15 schools earned recognition as part of the Energy Stars Schools program. The certification process with the EPA was accomplished with the help of the State Energy Conservation Office (SECO), which provided the engineering through its contract with Texas Energy Engineer Systems, Inc. (TESSI). Utility data is entered into the EPA Portfolio Manager by the Energy Management Department and that data along with other related information is accessed and a score for the building is given which is calculated from that data.

Designated Round Rock ISD campuses include Fern Bluff, Double File Trail, Old Town, Gattis, Jollyville, Brushy Creek, Berkman, Purple Sage, Chandler Oaks and Herrington elementary schools, Hopewell, Canyon Vista and Hernandez middle schools, and Westwood high school.

“It is an honor to be certified as part of the EPA Energy Star Schools program,” Chief Operating Officer Bob Cervi said. “We are committed to serving our community in energy efficient ways while supporting the teaching and learning that occurs in our facilities each day.”