Hillsboro School District Weekly Hot News September 28, 2026 - U.S. Green Building Council 2026-27 School Air Quality Fellowship Program

Congratulations are in order for Mia Hocking, HSD’s resource conservation manager! She was selected as one of 53 school system leaders in 25 states to participate in the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) 2026-27 School Air Quality Fellowship program. This program is one of the indoor air quality initiatives administered by the Center for Green Schools at USGBC.  The nine-month program provides training, technical assistance, and peer support to help participants develop practical plans for cleaner, healthier indoor air and energy-efficient schools.  Wildfire smoke, respiratory illnesses and new state indoor air quality requirements have increased the need for proactive district planning. Effective indoor air quality management can support student and staff health, reduce absenteeism, improve building operations and extend the useful life of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment. Written plans can also help districts maintain consistent practices through staff transitions, communicate clearly with families and communities, meet applicable requirements and understand their progress over time. Anisa Herning, director of the Center for Green Schools at USGBC, notes that the reach of this cohort - representing more than 2 million students and thousands of staff members - means that stronger practices can improve learning and working conditions across the country.  During the fellowship, participants will use the School District Energy Efficient Indoor Air Quality Management Plan Toolkit to create district-specific plans that address indoor air quality while accounting for energy use and operating costs. The toolkit was developed in partnership with the American Lung Association, Go Green Initiative, and the University of Utah. It includes simple plan language, case studies, and an editable template districts can adapt to their needs.  Learn more about the Center for Green Schools and USGBC’s work on Indoor Air Quality at centerforgreenschools.org.