I’m shocked to discover that the entire school district in my area keeps the thermostat on 74 when students are not in class. Is the school board unaware of digital thermostats that can be programmed? Government!
THE BRIEF:
- The district expects to save about $1.7 million a year.
- Seminole County schools are adjusting AC settings to cut energy costs.
- Some classrooms have experienced higher temperatures amid mechanical issues.
To reduce high electricity costs—which typically range from $17 million to $19 million annually—Seminole County Public Schools is adjusting its energy management strategy under the guidance of district spokesperson Mark Mullins.
Instead of keeping buildings at an occupied temperature setting of roughly 74°F when they are empty, thermostats will now be raised to about 78°F during unoccupied periods. While the district is working through initial mechanical issues that have caused some classrooms to become uncomfortably warm during the transition, Mullins emphasized that maintaining a comfortable learning environment remains their top priority alongside energy efficiency. Meanwhile, students have noticed the warmer classrooms and are hoping for a swift resolution.
