Capuano Early Childhood Center

One of the first green public schools in New England, the Capuano Early Childhood Center is a model high-performance facility incorporating extensive classroom daylighting, a 35 kW photovoltaic system and an energy efficient envelope, mechanical and electrical system reducing energy cost by over 38%. Materials were selected because they are more durable and require less maintenance than commonly used construction materials, are made from recycled products, and can be recycled in the future. In addition, the site is designed with a drip irrigation system to significantly reduce water usage. It received significant funding from the local utility company and a “Green School” grant from the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative.

This two-story school is situated on the edge of a city park in a dense residential neighborhood. The PK-1 facility is designed to accommodate 400 students from around the city and provides full-day programs aimed at reading and language readiness, as well as an extensive after-school program. Because of its location on Glen Park, which was redesigned to serve Somerville’s youngest users, the new Capuano serves as a community resource with a full-size gymnasium and cafetorium, as well as community gardens, soccer fields and basketball courts.

The project, cited as one of the top ten green schools in the US in National Geographic’s Green Guide, received First Place in the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association Awards, and is a winner of the Walter Taylor Award—the top honor of the AASA/AIA/CEFPI combined program.