Applications Now Open for $4.5 Million in Energy CLASS Prize Program

Local education agencies can now submit applications for the Energy CLASS Prize, a program that aims to "make energy management a sustainable feature of their communities while positioning them to make meaningful infrastructure improvements that will reduce utility costs, improve indoor air quality, and improve learning environments long-term." Prizes include $3.75 million in cash and an additional $750,000 in technical support.

The Energy CLASS Prize program (Energy Champions Leading the Advancement of Sustainable Schools) will award $100,000 to up to 25 LEAs in the first phase. The money is designed to help train administrators and facilities staff and for other purposes. In phase 2, participants will have a chance to win a $50,000 bonus based of their original goals and current progress on meeting those goals.

The program is open only to LEAs or collectives (with a lead LEA assigned to the program). Applications are being accepted until February 28, 2023 at 2 p.m. Pacific.

Prospective applicants must register on the Hero X website in order to see the full details of the program. (Click the "Solve This Challenge" button to register.) An informational webinar, origitnally held last week, is also available for viewing.

 

About the Author

David Nagel is the former editorial director of 1105 Media's Education Group and editor-in-chief of THE Journal, STEAM Universe, and Spaces4Learning. A 30-year publishing veteran, Nagel has led or contributed to dozens of technology, art, marketing, media, and business publications.

He can be reached at [email protected]. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidrnagel/ .


Featured

  • abstract geometric pattern of glowing interconnected triangles, hexagons, and circles in blue, gold, and white, spread across a dark navy-to-black gradient background

    OpenAI Introduces 'Operator' AI for Performing Web Tasks

    OpenAI has announced "Operator," an AI agent designed to perform web-based tasks autonomously using its own browser. Currently available as a research preview for Pro users in the United States, the tool aims to automate everyday activities such as filling out forms, ordering groceries, and even creating memes.

  • glowing digital payment icon hovers above an abstract school environment

    New ParentSquare Feature Streamlines School Payments

    Digital engagement company ParentSquare has introduced ParentSquare Pay, a school payments solution for its flagship communication platform.

  • depiction of a K-12 classroom with geometric shapes forming students and a teacher, surrounded by multiple holographic learning tools in various subjects

    I've Been in K-12 for Over 15 Years. Here Are Three Things We Need to Do to Integrate AI Now.

    When AI is deployed responsibly and equitably, the potential advantages of empowering more personalized learning, optimizing student engagement, uncovering gaps in education, automating routine tasks, and freeing up more time for effective teacher-student interactions have the power to transform education.

  • Stock market graphs and candlesticks breaking apart with glass-like cracks

    Chinese Startup Disrupts AI Market

    A new low-cost artificial intelligence model from China is wreaking havoc in the technology sector, with tech stocks plummeting globally as concerns grow over the potential disruption it could cause.