Classroom conditions in Cook County School District 104 just outside of Chicago were affecting student performance and teacher morale. Providing appropriate IAQ and a comfortable environment to the K-12 buildings was a critical part of the school district’s mission. However, like many school districts, financial constraints made large infrastructure investments a challenge.
With five schools in the district — and mechanical systems dating back to the 1960s — the district began a process of renovating its facilities to improve performance and efficiency. An economic downturn interrupted progress on the district’s facility improvements, leaving only three of the five schools renovated and causing a lack of parity within the district.