by Rebecca Walker — May 25, 2009 The U.S. House of Representatives has passed legislation that would provide $6.4 billion in grants to state and local school districts to renovate, repair, and modernize schools. The 21st Century High-Performing Public Schools Act (H.R. 2187) directs funding to projects nationwide that will improve health, safety, energy efficiency, and the overall learning climate of schools.
Under the bill, each state would receive funding that would then disperse those funds to local school districts for modernization projects. Eligible projects include replacing building systems, lighting, doors, and other modifications that would improve the teaching and learning environment.
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) supports a federal commitment to school modernization. The renovation of our nation’s schools will not only improve the health and learning environments for students, but also will stimulate work for the design and construction industry in all 50 states, says AIA.
The bill has been referred the Senate. For more information, see the AIA Web site.
