RESEARCH

Here are some useful links on "going green."

http://www.ehow.com/how_4547684_educate-children-going-green.html http://water.cobbcountyga.gov/greenschool.htm http://www.buildgreenschools.org/press/pr_103106.html http://www.matternetwork.com/2008/12/school-lunch-programs-arent-just.cfm http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P3-1206250181.html http://www.pe.com/localnews/k12/stories/PE_News_Local_S_sgreen17.496d7a1.html

The research is clear. A well-thought out, strategically implemented, and carefully monitored resource conservation plan pays off for schools. Whether the program is large or small, narrow in focus or all-encompassing, the benefits can be substantial. And the benefits extend beyond financial savings and resource conservation. Studies have demonstrated a clear and, at times, dramatic impact on student achievement, increased conservation awareness, reduced absenteeism, improved morale, and teacher retention.

Research-based support for going green is extensive. As a starting point, we offer the following.

http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=2908
 * Building Green Schools costs $3/square foot. The total financial benefits (energy, emissions, water and wastewater, increased earnings, asthma reduction, cold and flu reduction, teacher retention, employment impact) total $74/square foot. The net financial benefits total $71/square foot.**

Hoffman, P.J. (2009, April). Making the change to sustainability: Building green builds a better education. Techniques: Connecting Education and Careers. [Online[, 16-20. Available: EBSCOhost. [2009, July 16].
 * Studies show green schools have a positive impact on attendance, classroom learning, student attitude and teacher morale**.

Morgan, S. C., Hamilton, S. L., Bentley, M. L., Myrie, S. (2009, Summer). Environmental education in botanic gardens; Exploring Brooklyn botanic garden's project green reach. Journal of Environmental Education. [Online], 35-52. Available: EBSCOhost. [2009, July 16].
 * A garden-based youth education program can have a positive impact on students attending Title 1 schools. Positive effects include academic and interdisciplinary skills, understanding of science concepts and gardening skills, environmental awareness and appreciation, social development and growth, among others.**

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 * Studies show that daylighting improves student performance and mood.**

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 * Clearview Elementary in Hanover, Pennsylvania is a school that was built using green features that in the long run will pay the initial cost for the school to be built and help keep students healthy.**

http://temp.dekalb.k12.ga.us/newsroom/press/pdf/2009-04-20.2009-04-28.DCSS_Opens_House,_Presents_Arabia_Mtn_HS_to_Community.pdf
 * The first Georgia school expected to be Leadership Energy Engineering Design (LEED) "Silver" certified opened in Dekalb County this month for the 2009 - 2010 school year.**