Decarb K-12 Boston
Decarbonizing K-12 schools and new construction is critical for Massachusetts as the Commonwealth works toward its legally mandated climate goals and net-zero emissions by 2050. Buildings—especially schools—are long-lived assets, and decisions made today will shape emissions, operating costs, and student health for decades. New construction and major renovations present a unique opportunity to avoid locking in fossil-fuel dependence, reduce long-term energy costs, improve indoor air quality, and create healthier, more resilient learning environments for students and staff. Schools also serve as community anchors, making them powerful demonstrations of climate leadership and equitable investment across Massachusetts.
This one-day Summit will bring together public- and private-sector leaders to explore how Massachusetts can accelerate decarbonization in K-12 and new construction projects. The program will cover policy and code requirements, funding and incentive pathways, best practices in design and construction, and real-world case studies from across the state. Attendees will gain practical insights into electrification, high-performance building strategies, cost management, and implementation challenges—equipping districts, municipalities, designers, and builders with the tools needed to deliver low-carbon, future-ready buildings.
Confirmed speakers
Summit Agenda
8:00 – 8:45 AM
Registration & Networking
8:45 – 9:00 AM
Welcome & Opening Remarks
The Building Envelope as the Foundation for Safe, High-Performance K–12 Schools
9:00 – 9:40 AM
Opening Panel: Code-Compliant, High-Performance Building Envelopes for K–12
Meeting IECC and state school construction requirements while balancing indoor air quality, moisture management, safety, durability, and energy performance
Ryan David Ewell (Moderator), Founder and Director at Envelope LLC
- He leads Envelope LLC, delivering high-performance, low-carbon building envelope solutions that reduce energy use, cut embodied carbon, and improve long-term resiliency across university, government, healthcare, and multifamily projects. LinkedInJohn Myers, Preconstruction Executive, Gilbane Building Company
- Preconstruction Executive John Myers advises clients on optimizing building energy strategies to meet New England's evolving new energy codes, strategizing with owners, designers, and stakeholders to achieve carbon goals, analyze the most effective and cost-efficient options in emerging technology fields. Early decisions on equipment sizing, balancing first costs with lifecycle costs, and laying the groundwork for a robust training program for future building operators will impact the cost and future efficiency of facilities. LinkedIn
9:40 – 10:10 AM
The Business Case for K–12 Decarbonization
Lifecycle cost analysis, operational savings, funding pathways, and long-term district value
10:10 – 10:30 AM
Coffee & Networking Break
10:30 – 10:50 AM
Smart Energy Management for K–12 Campuses
Controls, monitoring, and analytics to optimize performance and reduce emissions
10:50 – 11:10 AM
Geothermal for Schools
Design criteria, incentives, and implementation lessons
11:10 – 11:30 AM
EV Infrastructure & Electric Bus Readiness
Charging strategies, site planning, and grid coordination
11:30 – 11:50 AM
Decarbonization Without Disruption
Protecting student health, safety, comfort, and instructional continuity