Spring Hill Elementary School

In 2020, Spring Hill Elementary School partnered with Control Service Company (CSC) to evaluate the impact of tunable white LED lighting systems in classrooms. The goal was to improve the learning environment for students and teachers while reducing energy and maintenance costs. The project targeted key behavioral and environmental challenges by providing dynamic lighting controls that could be tailored to each classroom’s needs.

• Student Behavior and Focus: Many students struggled with anxiety, restlessness, and difficulty staying focused. Frequent breaks and movement were needed, especially in special education classrooms.
• Sensory and Environmental Needs: Teachers reported student discomfort, including headaches and overstimulation from traditional lighting.
• COVID-Era Limitations: Movement restrictions made it harder to meet students’ energy needs through traditional classroom management methods.
Efficiency Goals: The school aimed to improve energy efficiency and reduce maintenance costs through smarter lighting systems.

CSC implemented tunable white LED lighting systems that allowed both teachers and students to adjust light settings (warmth, brightness) based on classroom needs and activity levels. The system was designed for ease of use, engagement, and remote access.
Key Features Included:
• Student-Accessible Controls: Students could adjust lighting through simple panels, increasing ownership and participation.
• Remote Operation: Lighting could be adjusted by staff remotely, without disrupting lessons.
Energy Monitoring: Real-time data enabled proactive energy and cost management.

• Student Engagement: Students were enthusiastic about the new system, often requesting lighting changes and noticing the impact on their mood and focus—particularly during testing.
• Energy Savings: Spring Hill Elementary expects to save at least 50% in lighting-related energy costs in upgraded classrooms, with additional savings from reduced maintenance.
• Behavioral Improvements: The lighting helped calm antsy students, de-escalate situations, and reduce the frequency and length of movement breaks.
Teaching Efficiency: Teachers were able to adjust lighting without leaving student groups, improving flow and minimizing disruption.

A teacher at Spring Hill shared:
“Students loved it. They were excited to use it, especially during testing. Some even bragged about it to students in other classrooms. I’d love to see it in every room, especially in our special education areas where it made the biggest difference.”

This project demonstrated how intentional lighting design can significantly improve educational outcomes. By focusing on wellness, engagement, and efficiency, CSC and Spring Hill Elementary successfully transformed learning environments with measurable benefits for students and staff. The success of this pilot supports a future vision for district-wide adoption.