The new, modern T.A. Brown campus is Austin ISD’s first Green School rooted in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics and outdoor learning. The facility focuses on sustainability, health and well-being, transparency and a connection to the community.

Natural resources such as rain are turned into steam, helping with heating and cooling, which will add to the district’s sustainability efforts. Other indoor and outdoor features include a nature loop trail, nature play, dry creek bed, learning pond, water cisterns, condensate water reuse and daylighting.

T.A. Brown joined the Green Schools National Network as a Catalyst School, and worked with GSNN to learn about best practices and to create an action plan. Additionally, T.A. Brown presented at the Green Schools Conference and Expo in March 2020.

To prepare teachers to best utilize the new space, T.A. Brown established a partnership with EcoRise to provide training on how to integrate sustainability curricula and facilitate outdoor learning lessons. EcoRise will continue to play an integral role in training and supporting teachers to utilize the building to maximize STEAM integration and hands-on student learning

T. A. Brown’s dedication to sustainability education is helping students understand the impact of their built environments, prepare for the future and become leaders and change-makers within their community.