LEED for Schools Gold Certification received for Andrew H. Wilson Elementary

November, 2010) – HMS Architects, a New Orleans-based firm, received the notice of LEED for Schools Gold certification for Andrew H. Wilson Elementary School.

Andrew H. Wilson Elementary School, located in the Broadmoor Community in New Orleans, LA. is a New Orleans Recovery School District Quick Start School. The elementary school reflects the new movement in sustainability with a friendly site design, high performance building envelope, enhanced classroom acoustics, daylighting design, “green” construction materials and many additional elements that function as teaching tools. HMS Architects along with Innovative Design out of South Carolina managed the complete renovation of the existing school building flooded by Hurricane Katrina and an addition of approximately 50,000 square feet that completely restored a significant local Historic structure into a 21st century high performance school.

The LEED for Schools Rating System recognizes the unique nature of the design and construction of K-12 schools. Based on the LEED for New Construction rating system, it addresses issues such as classroom acoustics, master planning, mold prevention and environmental site assessment.

By addressing the uniqueness of school spaces and children's health issues, LEED for Schools provides a unique, comprehensive tool for schools that wish to build green, with measurable results. LEED for Schools is the recognized third-party standard for high-performance schools that is healthy for students, comfortable for teachers, and cost-effective.

“The results are pleasing to everyone who touched this project. The climate of the school looks and feels brighter. We are proud of this accomplishment and everyone, from students to staff, is invested in caring for it, so it continues to look great and feel good” said Charles Montgomery, Principal of HMS
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Andrew H. Wilson Elementary School was chosen as one of the New Orleans Recovery School District’s Quick Start Schools after Hurricane Katrina flooded the Broadmoor neighborhood. As a showcase green school, the Wilson Elementary School building incorporates more than 40 specific green measures to enhance the building’s energy efficiency and student performance.
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HMS Architects was founded in 1996 and is recognized for providing sound, creative and enduring design through a collaborative process. Using the very latest technology, talented and experienced staff, and a commitment to collaboration and teamwork, HMS offers accessible communication both within the firm as well as with clients, contractors and consultants.
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