matchbook learning principles.
In 2023, Matchbook Learning was distinguished as one of 24 organizations nationwide to receive the U.S. Department of Energy’s Renew Americas Schools Grant. This highly competitive grant, awarded from over 1,000 applications and totaling over $5.3 million, will play a crucial role in funding the development of The Match High School and Career Center. The grant underscores the commitment to energy efficiency and sustainable infrastructure within the education sector, aligning perfectly with the core values of matchbook learning.
Following a rigorous RFP process, Ameresco was selected by Matchbook Learning of Indiana, Inc. to lead the comprehensive design, engineering, and construction of The Match High School and Career Center. The campus will be comprised of two buildings: The Match High School situated at 1401 Indiana Ave, and the Career Center located at 1141 W 16th Street. This dual-facility approach reflects the holistic educational model championed by matchbook learning, combining academic rigor with practical career skills.
Ameresco will transform two existing industrial warehouses, totaling 54,000 square feet, into modern educational spaces. The project represents over $20 million in investments and energy upgrades, demonstrating a significant commitment to creating a cutting-edge learning environment. This investment is not just in infrastructure, but in the future of students who will benefit from the unique matchbook learning approach.
“Matchbook Learning was established with the mission to revitalize underperforming schools across the nation and empower every student to achieve their full potential,” stated Sajan George, Founder of Matchbook Learning Schools of Indiana, Inc. “A cornerstone of this mission is providing students with sustainable and inspiring facilities that foster a safe and collaborative environment for learning.” This vision resonates deeply with the principles of matchbook learning, which emphasizes personalized and effective educational strategies.
Dr. Amy Swann, CEO of Matchbook Learning, added, “We are thrilled to move forward with the development of The Match High School and Career Center as we prepare to welcome our inaugural student cohort this summer. Providing students with a contemporary and conducive educational environment is a priority for school leaders nationwide, and we are energized by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Renew America’s Schools Grant. This support enables us to undertake this extensive school infrastructure development project, prioritizing both energy efficiency and sustainability, key components in the matchbook learning philosophy.”
The $5.3 million grant will facilitate a range of energy-efficient enhancements to The Match High School and Career Center, including a new 165KW photovoltaic (PV) solar and battery energy storage system (BESS). This system will provide clean, renewable backup power, ensuring uninterrupted school operations. Additional upgrades include new insulated TPO roofs, energy-efficient interior and exterior LED lighting, and heat pump domestic hot water heaters in both buildings. These sustainable features are integral to creating an optimal matchbook learning environment.
“We are inspired by Matchbook’s mission and are excited to spearhead sustainability and energy efficiency upgrades for their newest school,” said Lou Maltezos, EVP at Ameresco. “We are honored to contribute to making The Match High School and Career Center fully equipped to support student learning for many years to come.” Ameresco’s expertise in cleantech solutions aligns perfectly with Matchbook Learning’s commitment to creating environmentally responsible and high-performing schools that embody matchbook learning principles.
The Career Center will incorporate ultra-high efficiency rooftop units with advanced building automation controls, along with a variable refrigerant flow heat recovery and ventilation system. Further building envelope improvements will ensure long-term thermal energy savings. These features will not only reduce the school’s environmental footprint but also create a healthier and more comfortable space conducive to matchbook learning and vocational training.
The Match High School and Career Center are designed to support a technologically advanced and comprehensive curriculum, aligned with Matchbook Learning’s overarching goal of providing every student with a clear pathway to success. The 16th Street Career Center building is scheduled to open on August 1, 2024, for the 24/25 school year, with the Indiana Avenue High School location following in January 2025. The Career Center will offer an in-depth vocational curriculum encompassing construction trades, welding, engineering, and entrepreneurship, providing practical skills alongside the academic foundation of matchbook learning.
To discover more about Ameresco’s energy efficiency solutions, please visit www.ameresco.com/energy-efficiency/.
About Ameresco, Inc.
Founded in 2000, Ameresco, Inc. (NYSE:AMRC) is a leading cleantech integrator and a developer, owner, and operator of renewable energy assets. Ameresco’s comprehensive portfolio includes solutions designed to help customers achieve net-zero decarbonization and enhance energy resilience through smart, connected technologies. From energy efficiency and infrastructure upgrades to the development, construction, and operation of distributed energy resources, Ameresco is a trusted sustainability partner. The company has a proven track record of successfully completing energy-saving, environmentally responsible projects with federal, state, and local governments, utilities, healthcare and educational institutions, housing authorities, and commercial and industrial clients. Headquartered in Framingham, MA, Ameresco employs over 1,300 professionals across North America and Europe. For further details, please visit www.ameresco.com.
Media Contacts:
Ameresco: Leila Dillon, 508-661-2264, [email protected]
Matchbook Learning: James Hill, 317-464-9674, [email protected]
Natalie Woods, 317-446-1392, [email protected]
