School: Washington High School
Class: CTE Energy
Instructor: Maria Rollan Gallego
Client: School Facilities Department
Problem: How can we use data to identify ways our school can save energy and operate more efficiently?
Summary
In this Real-World Learning energy audit project, students applied academic and career-readiness skills to analyze and improve energy use in their school building. Partnering with the school’s facilities department and guided by Facilities Manager Mr. James Miller, students conducted energy walkthroughs, gathered lighting and appliance data, calculated energy usage, and created a comprehensive report featuring graphs and recommendations. A local energy expert, Ms. Carla Ruiz, provided professional insights into auditing practices and energy-related careers. Students presented their final audit reports to peers, staff, and the facilities manager. While not all recommendations were implemented immediately, the project led to measurable behavioral changes in the school community and enhanced student understanding of real-world energy efficiency solutions.
Takeaways
Through the energy audit project, students developed several essential skills and meaningful outgrowths. They gained data literacy by collecting, interpreting, and graphing real energy usage data, and improved their critical thinking by analyzing patterns and making evidence-based recommendations. Students practiced collaboration and communication by working in teams with assigned roles, sharing responsibilities during the audit, and presenting their findings to peers or school staff.
Advice
Build strong relationships with your community partner early—having a supportive client like your school’s facilities manager makes the project feel authentic and keeps students motivated.
Standards/Learning Targets
The energy audit project addressed multiple learning standards and targets across science, math, and career readiness. Students investigated energy forms and conversions, analyzed major energy resources and their impact on society, and evaluated energy usage across sectors such as residential, commercial, industrial, and transportation. Key learning targets included using data to describe relationships between energy, power, and consumption; interpreting graphs and real-world utility data; and applying scientific reasoning to recommend improvements. Additionally, the project emphasized career-connected learning, introducing students to roles in energy auditing, engineering, and sustainability. The standards also supported communication and collaboration skills, as students were required to present findings, explain graphs, and reflect on energy justice and efficiency in their community.