Sussex School, Missoula MT

Project Overview

The Sussex School in Montana, a private elementary school, holds the distinction of being the first LEED-certified school building in the state. The School exemplifies how sustainable building practices can be seamlessly integrated into educational structures, providing both a functional learning environment and a model for green building. The project demonstrates the effectiveness of SIPs in reducing energy costs and enhancing environmental education.

Design and Sustainability

In the project's design phase, energy modeling pointed to SIPs to provide superior air sealing and insulation for walls and roofs, significantly enhancing the building's energy efficiency. The use of SIPs delivered an airtight envelope, which not only reduces air infiltration but also enhances the indoor air environment, making it more comfortable for students and staff.

Most impressive was the actual outcome of operational costs and energy efficiency, which surpassed initial energy modeling expectations (particularly in harsh and cold Montana winters where temps were regularly sub 30 degrees). The airtight construction of structural insulated panel systems is integral to achieving substantial energy savings, which the school realized when their operational costs in the dead of winter came in at just $8 per day.

Why SIPs?

Ultimately, Premier SIPS were chosen for their effectiveness in air sealing and insulation. These features are critical in creating an energy-efficient building that aligns with the school's sustainability goals and LEED certification requirements.

“The efficient design will create hands-on learning opportunities for Sussex students and for the greater community of students in Montana. New curriculum and associated lessons will be based on concepts such as energy conservation, emissions reduction, water and wastewater usage, recycling and reuse of building materials. Construction of this “green” building affirms our school’s core values of conservation, education and environmental stewardship, and demonstrates the benefits of the eco-conscious design.” - Sussex School

Educational and Community Impact

In addition to creating a LEED certified, sustainable building for the future, the green principles used in construction of the Sussex School created a hands-on learning platform for students. Able to point at the building they are learning in, the school has integrated curriculum into its learning that focuses on:

• Energy Conservation
• Emissions Reduction
• Water and Wastewater Usage
• Recycling and Reuse of Building Materials

These educational programs are designed to instill core values of conservation, education, and environmental stewardship in students, and demonstrate the tangible benefits of eco-conscious design.

Key Benefits of SIPs

• Superior Insulation: Premier SIPS provide exceptional insulation, contributing to significant energy savings by maintaining a stable indoor temperature.
• Airtight Envelope: The airtight construction reduces air infiltration, enhancing the overall energy efficiency of the building.
• Long-Term Operational Cost Savings: Premier SIPS are 55% more energy efficient, leading to reduced overall energy costs.
• Reduced HVAC Requirements: The superior insulation properties of SIPs substantially decrease the need for heating and cooling.
• Reduced Waste: SIPs construction minimizes waste generation during the building process, supporting sustainable construction practices.
• Healthier Indoor Environments: Premier SIPS are Indoor Air Gold Certified for healthier indoor air quality and environments for learning. 
• Comfortable Indoor Environment: The enhanced air quality and temperature control create a more comfortable and healthier learning environment for students.
• Educational Value: The use of SIPs provides practical examples of sustainable building techniques for educational purposes.