Designing for Decarbonization: Lessons from Boston’s First LEED Platinum School

Josiah Quincy Upper School (JQUS) is a powerful example of what’s possible when project teams refuse to slow down in the face of complexity. As Boston Public Schools' first LEED Platinum school, JQUS demonstrates bold leadership in carbon reduction, full electrification, and high-performance design. This session explores how the JQUS team achieved full electrification and ambitious carbon reductions while balancing energy use, indoor air quality, occupant comfort, a tight urban site, 21st‑century high school program goals, and a limited public‑sector budget. Featuring members of the project team, the conversation will highlight real‑world decision‑making, collaboration, and tradeoffs that kept sustainability goals moving forward, and offer practical lessons attendees can apply to their own resilient, high‑performance projects. Attendees will gain practical insights into overcoming barriers and maintaining momentum toward a zero-carbon future.