This case study presents the lessons learned from incorporating energy efficiency in the rebuilding and renovating of New Orleans K-12 schools after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The experiences of four new schools—Langston Hughes Elementary School, Andrew H. Wilson Elementary School (which was 50% new construction and 50% major renovation), L.B. Landry High School, and Lake Area High School—and one major renovation, Joseph A. Craig Elementary School—are described to help other school districts and design teams with their in-progress and future school building projects in hot-humid climates.

Conclusion

The devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, coupled with the subsequent FEMA settlement money, provided the New Orleans School District with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reorganize and rebuild its ailing school facilities. The district drew on the expertise of many experts to create the School Facilities Master Plan and to develop the 10-year roadmap for rebuilding the city’s schools. On a parallel path, the district built four Quick Start Schools in an effort to invest FEMA funds in permanent facilities instead of additional temporary campuses. The Quick Start Schools had the additional impact of developing the school system’s procurement and school building expertise as well as gaining experience in producing schools that can achieve 30% energy savings.