Vermont school districts have an exciting opportunity to improve indoor air quality, increase energy efficiency, and build staff expertise through the 2026–2027 School Air Quality Fellowship.

The Center for Green Schools at the U.S. Green Building Council is now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 School Air Quality Fellowship. Running from September 2026 to May 2027, this nine-month program empowers K-12 public school district staff to develop plans for cleaner indoor air and energy efficiency.

Fellowship Benefits:

• Personalized Training and Technical Assistance: Specialized Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and energy management training from industry leaders
• Paid Credentials: Fully paid support for earning credentials like the Building Operator Certification, Registered Environmental Health Specialist/Registered Sanitarian, and LEED Green Associate
• Green Schools Conference Attendance: Travel and attendance to the Green Schools Conference and School Facilities Leadership Summit in Austin, TX (Feb 8-11, 2027).
• Peer Networking: Connection with a cohort of regional and national peers
• Mini-Grant Funding: The opportunity to receive up to $30,000 in mini-grant funds through a collaboration with the American Lung Association 

Monetary Value: The estimated monetary value of the Fellowship is $5,000, with potential for up to $30,000 in mini-grant funding.

Participant Commitments

• Develop or refine district-level written IAQ guidelines with expert guidance
• Select and complete a relevant professional credential
• Attend national conference in Austin, TX February 2027 (travel and attendance included with Fellowship)
• Devote roughly 10 hours per month to Fellowship training, technical assistance, and credential work (may vary depending on credentialing opportunity pursued)

Application Process and Timeline:

• Application open April 24 – July 10, 2026
• Fellows selected by July 31, 2026
• Fellowship runs September 2026 through May 2027

See the Center for Green Schools website for more information including FAQs, and a Justification Letter that applicants can share with their supervisors. 

Questions: contact schools@usgbc.org.

APPLY NOW

New England districts interested in learning more are also encouraged to connect with Medea Villeré, the Northeast regional contact for the program, who can discuss the fellowship, indoor air quality initiatives, and related school sustainability projects. Her email is mvillere@usgbc.org.