Rating System

LEED BD+C: Schools

Rating System Version

v2 - Schools 2007

Inquiry

The stated intent of this prerequisite to "Provide classrooms that are quiet and in which teachers can speak to the class without straining their voices and students can effectively communicate with each other and the teacher." Per the prerequisite, this is accomplished by meeting prescriptive requirements for the building envelope and interior assemblies, with the goal of achieving a maximum background noise level in classrooms and other primary learning spaces of 45 dBA. The prerequisite has a prescriptive standard that would require a roof/ceiling assembly with an STC rating of 50. Our elementary school has been designed to meet a maximum background noise level in classrooms and other primary learning spaces of 45 dBA using careful selection of a planned development site that has low outdoor sound levels. The background noise level in classrooms and other primary learning spaces is calculated with windows maximized for daylighting and views, and a roof/ceiling assembly with an STC rating of 40. Will a roof/ceiling assembly that has an STC rating of 40 be acceptable to achieve EQp3 if the project can achieve the LEED goal of a maximum background noise level in classrooms and other core learning spaces of 45 dBA?