Sustainability & Climate Education

Ojai Valley School has emerged as a leader in the independent school community with its pursuit of environmental sustainability and conservation initiatives. These include reducing water usage, pursuing energy efficiency improvements, incorporating green-building practices in new building projects, and embracing solar technology.

The School was awarded the state’s top honor for environmental excellence in education in the 2016-2017 school year in recognition of its long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability. Today, the School continues to emphasize the importance of being a good steward of the environment in its building practices, its outdoor education program, and its evolving Land & Climate curriculum.

Our students are part of a generation that will play a pivotal role in addressing the climate crisis; therefore, a solid foundation in the various aspects of environmental studies, including both the sciences and the humanities, will provide them with the skills and perspectives to be part of a solution. Learn more on the Land & Climate curriculum page.

Our community to sustainability extends beyond the classroom. The new buildings at the Upper Campus, designed by Frederick Fisher & Partners architects, are environmentally sustainable and healthy for students and staff. Here are a few of the green initiatives linked to the building project:

  • Solar panels supply most of the electricity for the high school community
  • Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) allows energy produced from solar to be stored and then used when consumption outstrips renewable output
  • 65% of the demolition and construction waste diverted from landfills and recycled
  • Landscaping irrigation systems designed to meet “Water Sense” standards which call for a minimum 50% reduction of water usage in irrigation. All faucets, showers, toilets and urinals meet “Water Sense” standards
  • The project was built on an existing developed site and did not disturb “sensitive” areas
  • The project excelled at conserving existing natural areas and restoring damages areas to provide habitat and promote biodiversity
  • The project achieved an innovation credit by providing a comprehensive green cleaning program to protect the health of students, staff and teachers

Here are additional ways OVS teaches and demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability:

  • Pre-Kindergarten to 12th Grade environmental education in classes and activities
  • Comprehensive recycling programs
  • Retrofitted lights with energy-efficient LED bulbs and fixtures
  • Water-efficient irrigation systems and plumbing
  • Drought-tolerant and native plantings, including reforestation of native oaks
  • Non-chemical fertilizers, pesticides and cleaning products
  • Partnering with local farmers to provide produce in the school’s own gardens