Wilde Lake Middle School Earns LEED Platinum Status

COLUMBIA, MD — The first net-zero school in Maryland has also earned another distinction. Wilde Lake Middle School has been certified as a leader in sustainability.

The school in the 10400 block of Cross Fox Lane was awarded a LEED platinum designation, according to a statement from the Howard County Public School System.

Wilde Lake Middle School produces 55 percent more energy than it consumes, through its geothermal system, building structure, solar power, day lighting and building structure, school officials said. It is the first "net-zero" school in the state of Maryland, meaning it puts out at least as much much energy as it takes in.

"Wilde Lake Middle School demonstrates the value of energy-conscious construction, and at the same time, serves as a valuable teaching tool for our staff and students," Interim Superintendent Michael J. Martirano said in a statement Wednesday about the LEED platinum certification.

The middle school was completed in 2017, built with assistance from Maryland, Howard County and a $2.8 million grant from the Maryland Energy Administration.

• Wilde Lake Middle School Opens as First Net-Zero School in Maryland
• Board Approves Plan for New Wilde Lake Middle School

The United States Green Building Council oversees the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) program, which contains four levels: LEED certified, LEED silver, LEED gold and LEED platinum.

Two Howard County public schools are gold-certified: Atholton High School and Ducketts Lane Elementary School, according to school officials. The following Howard County public schools are LEED silver-certified: Bollman Bridge Elementary, Deep Run Elementary, Northfield Elementary, Longfellow Elementary, Phelps Luck Elementary, Stevens Forest Elementary, Thunder Hill Elementary and Thomas Viaduct Middle School.

The LEED platinum status affirms that Wilde Lake Middle School is one of the most energy-efficient buildings in the U.S., according to officials.

Photo courtesy of Howard County Public School System.