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March 2007
News You Can Use
Utility Savings Reap Rewards
By voluntarily participating in the district’s Utility Shared Savings Initiative program, 16 school sites received rebates ranging from $369 to $61,220 for utility savings during the 2005-06 school year. In the program, sites are responsible for bearing the cost of utilities, with the exception of telephone. If a site goes over budget, it is not required to come up with the funds. Any reduction in the utility bill, however, is shared with the site 50/50.

The school decides how to use the rebate money in the following year. The largest rebate went to the San Diego High Educational Complex ($61,220), followed by Patrick Henry High School ($33,618), and University City High School ($24,990).

The schools used the rebate money in various ways, including:
  • Providing teachers for second-language students.
  • Updating a computer lab.
  • Purchasing instructional materials and textbooks.
  • Providing training for new teachers.
The program is in its second year and having great success. The Utilities/Energy Management Office plans to expand the program in 2007-08. For more information, call J. Naish at (858) 627-7217.