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Inderkum High Unlike Any Other [Natomas] source: the
kcrachannel 2004.8.17 Inderkum High School
The school uses far less energy than conventional schools, according to officials, who say it is one of the most dramatic and energy-efficient schools in California. Glass walls allow sunlight to flood in.
The school also has air conditioner diffuser units. "The concept here is, rather than air conditioning blowing out with a vent, it helps the circulation. It more oozes out, circulates throughout," said Inderkum High School Principal Rom Zimbalist. The cooling system uses geothermal tanks. Water is pumped deep underground, chilled and then used for air conditioning. The school has two gymnasiums. Half the light in the gyms comes from solar tubes in the ceiling, which reduces power costs. Solar panels on the roof will provide 25 percent of the school's electricity, according to officials. They say classrooms capture sunlight from the glass walls and overhead windows. The school has a 400-seat theater and soundproof music practice rooms. The school's design is tied in to small learning communities with four different academic wings -- all with their own reception and counseling areas. It also has a food court that includes pizza ovens, a salad bar and giant woks for preparing Chinese food. The school opens in two weeks. "The classrooms are kind of big, and I like the whole solar panel thing. It's pretty cool," said student Andrew Coleman. "I'm jumping out of bed most of the time in the morning, saying I can't wait 'til school, can't wait 'til school.," said student Russell Merritt. "The whole concept is to create a school that is inviting to students, a place where they want to stay," Zimbalist said.  |
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