Forest Hills Elementary in Coral Springs celebrates major energy savings with second place win in Miami Heat environmental contest
Coral Springs, Florida – Students and staff at Forest Hills Elementary School have a big reason to celebrate. The school recently earned second place in the Miami Heat’s “How Low Can You Go?” Challenge — a regional competition that encourages schools to lower their energy and water use in meaningful ways. The results are in, and Forest Hills Elementary stood out by reducing its electricity use by an impressive 14 percent.
According to school officials, that energy reduction translated into a savings of 47,901 kilowatt-hours — enough to power several homes for a year — and saved the school approximately $4,790 in electricity costs. The challenge included schools across Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties.
Though Forest Hills placed second overall in the energy category, the effort was no small feat. The school’s success reflects a shared commitment from students, teachers, and administrators to use resources more responsibly.
Taking the top spot in energy conservation was Central Park Elementary in Plantation, which managed to slash its electricity usage by a whopping 35 percent. That resulted in nearly $18,800 in savings. Cooper City High School came in third, reducing energy use by 12 percent and saving over $18,300.
The challenge also recognized water conservation. Coconut Creek Elementary earned first place in the water category, using 63 percent less water compared to the previous year — a remarkable achievement that demonstrates how schools are getting serious about sustainability on multiple fronts.
The “How Low Can You Go?” Challenge is more than just a numbers game. It’s a learning experience for students, too. “This competition empowers students to see firsthand the impact they can make toward environmental sustainability and reducing their carbon footprint,” said Superintendent Howard Hepburn in a press release. “They are learning that they have the power to create real, positive change by reducing waste and building a more sustainable future for all.”
To celebrate the winners, students from the top-performing schools were invited to a special event at the Miami Heat game on April 13. Before tipoff, they walked onto the court to receive banners in front of thousands of fans, highlighting their hard work and commitment to conservation.
The contest not only saved thousands of dollars in utility costs but also helped educate young people on the importance of making smart environmental choices — lessons they can carry with them well beyond the classroom.
For Forest Hills Elementary, the recognition is a proud reminder that even small changes, when done together, can have a powerful impact.
