5. OPEN FORUM HANDOUT 10-20-2014

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TWIN LADES LEER CERTIFIED ISD 728's environmental and economic stewardship isn't limited to just Westwood Elementary. In May 2012, Twin Lakes Elementary also earned LEED certification. Twin Lakes, located in Elk River, earned LEED certification thanks in part to its energy use, lighting, water and 1, material use as well as incorporating a variety of other sustainable strategies. A 15 -page report provides ratings for the school's sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources and indoor environment. iAJ'► Built in 2007, Twin Lakes was designed to be environmentally cutting edge. Twin Lakes Principal Dan Collins says the school's high level of energy efficiency allows its staff to educate, inspire and empower students about the environment. "Each year I meet with the third- graders to talk about their school and to give them a tour," Collins says.1 have the opportunity to talk with students about day lighting, slanted ceilings, solar tubes, recycled material used to build our school and water reduction, so this certification is not only an honor, it is a learning tool." NUMBERS MATTER Brian Menth, ISD 728's Purchasing Manager, says each month as much as 30 percent of the district's total waste is sorted and recycled, equaling about 12 cubic yards. The district's recycling numbers continue to grow. "Recycling is up over twenty percent on year," Menth explains. Menth adds the district has also committed itself to making recycling as easy as possible for students, staff and visitors and that commitment has had clear benefits. "The availability of recycling containers throughout the district, and the move to a'no- sort,' or mixed recycling service has made it easier for all students, staff and the community to make the right choice and drop their trash into the correct container," Menth says. r 'I � ,� �d► ►ti'ti Jrr�l>f � ^�f[� �, � Il~d �l,�i Ji 4 41w 4 L iii, ik, ii kii,iti, �w`lhAil 061,461I i 21