South Christian High School’s buildings are just eight years old, with a recent addition of 12 new classrooms. On paper, it’s the kind of facility that many would assume is already operating at its full potential, but E3M Solutions took a different approach.
As Eric DeVries, president of E3M Solutions, put it, “Even new buildings can find opportunities for savings, not just older existing buildings.”
That mindset is what opened the door for a deeper conversation between South Christian and E3M Solutions. One that wasn’t about adding more technology or updating infrastructure, but about understanding how the building was actually being used every day, and where meaningful improvements could be made.
E3M Solutions partnered with South Christian to take a closer look, all while working alongside their staff to uncover opportunities that were already within reach.
Instead of focusing on different systems or major upgrades, the work centered around operations. How spaces were used, how systems responded, and where small adjustments could lead to better performance. It was a practical, people-first approach. By aligning the building performance with real daily use, the team was able to identify changes that improved efficiency without adding complexity. As Aaron Meckes, Head of Schools, described it, “This was optimization and free money.”
This project was defined by true partnership. E3M Solutions worked closely with South Christian’s leadership and faculties staff, walking the buildings together, asking questions, and listening. That level of collaboration made it possible to find solutions that fit naturally into their existing routines rather than disrupting them.
This partnership reflects what both teams value: trust, shared understanding, and a commitment to doing what’s right for the people who use the space every day. The results went beyond operational improvements. Through this work and the school’s existing solar investment, South Christian became eligible for ENERGY STAR® NextGen® Certification, placing them among the top 5% most energy-efficient schools in the country. It’s a meaningful opportunity to support a mission that closely aligns with our own: financial sustainability, environmental responsibility, and making a lasting impact on people.
As SCHS sees the partnership, “It’s a win for them and a win for us, it’s a great solution for everyone.”
To hear directly from the team and see how this project came together, watch the full video below.
