LEED for Schools

LEED for Schools is the recognized third-party standard for high performance schools that are healthy for students, comfortable for teachers, and cost-effective.

The LEED for Schools rating system was developed to address the design and construction of K-12 schools. Based on LEED for New Construction, it focuses on classroom acoustics, master planning, mold prevention, environmental site assessment and other issues important to these buildings. LEED for Schools provides a comprehensive tool for schools that wish to build green with measurable results by recognizing the uniqueness of school spaces and their occupants.

All projects involving a full building dedicated to K-12 instruction must use either LEED for Schools or LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations and Maintenance. Other projects (university educational buildings, K-12 athletic facilities, or interpretive centers) may choose to use LEED for Schools if they wish.

Global Alternative Compliance Paths are available for this rating system.

Get involved

The Center for Green Schools is how USGBC is making sure every student has the opportunity to attend a green school within this generation. From the kindergartner entering the classroom, to the Ph.D. student performing researching in a lab, the Center provides the resources and support to elevate dialogue, accelerate policy and institute innovation toward green schools and campuses. High-performing schools result in high-performing students, and the Center works directly with staff, teachers, faculty, students, administrators, elected officials and communities to drive the transformation of all schools into sustainable places to live and learn, work and play.