Moving Up in Ontario
The Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) is ranked #5 in Ontario in the latest Top Energy-Performing School Boards Report released by the Sustainable Schools program.
Out of 72 school boards across the province, the OCSB moved up two spots this year, reflecting years of thoughtful planning, responsible stewardship, and on-going efforts to reduce energy consumption across our schools and facilities.
Making a Difference Across 87 Buildings
Managing energy use across 87 buildings is no small task. From elementary schools to secondary schools and administrative sites, every building plays a role in helping reduce our environmental footprint while creating healthy, comfortable learning spaces for students and staff.
Through upgrades to lighting, heating and ventilation systems, and on-going monitoring of building performance, the OCSB continues to make meaningful progress in improving energy efficiency across the system.
A Commitment to Responsible Stewardship
This recognition reflects the work happening behind the scenes every day to ensure our schools operate as efficiently and responsibly as possible.
“This ranking reflects years of careful planning and a strong commitment to operating our schools in a more sustainable and energy-efficient way,” says Miro Vala, Superintendent of Planning and Facilities. “Our goal is to create learning and working environments that are healthy, comfortable, and built with the future in mind for our students and staff.”
Building for the Future
Sustainability continues to be a key focus in both new construction and renewal projects across the Board. Through initiatives such as Savings by Design, the OCSB works alongside energy experts to incorporate environmentally responsible design features into new schools and major renovations.
Projects such as the new Kanata North Catholic Elementary School reflect this long-term approach to sustainability, with energy-efficient systems and modern building design helping reduce overall environmental impact.
The People Behind the Work
While technology and infrastructure matter, the success of these efforts also depends on the people who care for and maintain our schools every day.
OCSB caretaking and facilities staff play an important role in monitoring building performance, identifying conservation opportunities, and helping schools operate as efficiently as possible. Their work often happens quietly behind the scenes, but it has a significant impact across the system.
Students Leading the Way
Environmental responsibility is also alive in our classrooms and school communities. Schools across the OCSB participate in EcoSchools Canada, with students leading initiatives focused on waste reduction, environmental awareness, school gardens, and energy conservation.
These opportunities help students build leadership skills while learning the importance of caring for our shared environment and future generations.
Continuing the Work
The OCSB remains committed to reducing energy consumption, improving efficiency, and making responsible investments that support both environmental sustainability and long-term fiscal responsibility.
To learn more about the Board’s conservation goals and on-going sustainability efforts, read the OCSB 5 Year Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan.
