Investing in Our Future: Sustainable Upgrades at Vianney

St. John Vianney High School, St. Louis, MO, has committed to sustainability in recent cost-saving, energy-efficient upgrades to the school's HVAC and lighting systems, alongside the upcoming Summer launch of a student-led community garden.

HVAC System and LED Lighting:

Our upgraded HVAC system uses modern, energy-efficient technology to regulate temperature more precisely while using less power. By reducing energy waste and improving airflow, our school lowers its overall energy consumption and environmental impact.

We replaced the lights in the 100, 200 & 300 classrooms and hallways last summer.  We've also replaced a few others in areas where light fixtures were having difficulty.  The total number of fixtures replaced was 529.  This was a combination of 2' by 4' LED panels, LED can lights, emergency lights, and exit signs. Our light distributor is a Vianney alum and gave us deep discounts on these light fixtures.  Our total expenditure was just over $36,000.  It is estimated that we will recoup that cost in electrical consumption in about 6 years.

We plan to replace the light fixtures in the 400, 500, and 600 hallways, as well as in the offices, this summer as part of the classroom updates.  This will be about 100 additional fixtures.

The new HVAC system installed last summer included (6) high-efficiency RTU units and a DOAS unit.  These high-efficiency heat pump-type systems will use less power and have a significantly smaller footprint on the roof, allowing us to replace the roof with a higher-efficiency material.  We worked with AmerenUE to secure about $25,000 in rebates through their BizSavers program for this new HVAC equipment.   

Community Garden:

This summer, Vianney will be adding a Community Garden. Our plan is to start small with a few types of vegetables and some wildflowers compatible with our climate. This is being led by three faculty members and will include a handful of our current students. We plan to provide opportunities for students to help expand our efforts to provide fresh fruit, vegetables, and herbs to our school community for years to come.

Photos courtesy of Charlie Mager, Vianney High School Marketing and Communications coordinator

Update sent by Dave Gauvain,

Ministry Lead, Marianist Encounters,

Health Education,

St. John Vianney High School, St. Louis, MO