KCSD96 Featured by Lake County Regional Office of Education for Sustainability and Innovation

Forging an Eco-Friendly and Innovative Future Ahead: KCSD96 Leading the Way

Kildeer Countryside Consolidated School District 96 (KCSD96) in Buffalo Grove is proud to be recognized as an Illinois Green Ribbon School District Honoree by the Illinois Green Alliance. This prestigious recognition celebrates KCSD96’s deep commitment to environmental impact reduction, sustainability, and wellness.

At the heart of KCSD96’s green initiative is a growing investment in renewable energy. Since 2020, solar panels at Woodlawn Middle School and Country Meadows Elementary have provided 80–85% of those schools’ energy needs. To foster transparency and community engagement, the district offers real-time energy production and savings data through a solar tracking platform accessible on its website.

But sustainability at KCSD96 extends beyond infrastructure and decisions like using only green-certified cleaning products and native landscaping features that reduce irrigation needs—it’s an educational mission. These efforts not only reduce its footprint but empower the next generation to lead with purpose.

“Our sustainability goals are not just about protecting the environment or saving energy—they’re about inspiring curiosity and giving students real-world learning opportunities that connect science, problem-solving, and social responsibility,” said KCSD96 Superintendent Katie Sheridan.

KCSD96 is also advancing innovation through a strong STEM focus. In fall 2024, Twin Groves Middle School unveiled its new Collaboratory—an interactive learning space featuring a makerspace, noisy lab with 3D printers, and recording studios. A second KCSD96 Collaboratory is under construction at Woodlawn Middle School and will open in fall 2025. Students use this space in a variety of ways during the school day across all content areas.  You might see students creating bridges, organic art, recording podcasts, and more.

"Our vision at KCSD96 is to be the premier elementary school district by laying a strong, lasting foundation for our students as they move into high school and beyond," said Board of Education President Mike Burns.

KCSD96 is forging a greener, smarter future—one powered by innovation, learning, and sustainability.