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AB 841: Ventilation Verification and Energy Optimization – Training for the Design Professional, AHJ, and School Districts

Below is information about a free, self-paced training from the Sheet Metal Industry International Certification Board (ICB),  Testing, Adjusting and Balancing Bureau (TABB) and the National Energy Management Institute (NEMI) on verifying efficiency and compliance for school HVAC systems, and how AB 841 provides financial assistance to achieve this common goal.  This training was previewed by Chris Ruch (NEMI) at the last CMN Web-sShop focused on healthy indoor air quality (IAQ), but the course below is the full training program which includes Continuing Education Units (CEU) upon completion.  The CMN was pleased to be able to review the training during development and provide recommendations on how it could be improved. 

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Message from the Chair — Adjusting to the Times — Looking to the Future

As we approach the conclusion of a very challenging 2020, I want to reflect on CASH’s journey throughout this year, and also look to the future.  COVID-19 has been a game changer for K-12 schools in California and across the nation.  The public schools are this country’s essential nervous system with our students being the heart and soul of our nation.  The central role of public education is vital in the economic, social and political prosperity and stability of our society. 

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Message from the Chair – Following the Science – Reopening and Operating in the COVID-19 Environment

As I noted in my last Message from the Chair, COVID-19 has had an immediate and significant impact for K-12 education in California and across the nation.  The school facilities and maintenance communities have been focused on preparing staff and buildings for reopening and operating in the COVID-19 environment and beyond.  CASH has focused on advocacy for funding and programs to help address the unknown cost impacts of COVID-19, as well as providing timely information and education programs to assist our members navigate uncertain environments that have been created in the wake of COVID-19. 

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Deeper Focus: Routine Restricted Maintenance Account

The Routine Restricted Maintenance Account (RRMA) has been the primary source of funding for school maintenance departments, and it has had a long history of being underfunded and suspended during difficult budget times. A brief history of RRMA funding shows that it has been consistently underfunded, “flexed” (i.e. allowed to be used for any one-time school expenditure not related to maintenance) during the 2008 Great Recession, and was folded into the LCAP when it was created (not technically cut but requires engagement in the LCAP process to justify maintenance funding related to the LCAP’s Eight State Priorities). CASH was critical in the creation of the RRMA, and continues to be key in defending its existence when necessary.

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Message from the Chair – Tough Times Don’t Last – Tough People Do!

As with every aspect of American life, COVID-19 has changed the game for the education community, including the school facilities and maintenance sector.  California schools are confronted with questions on procedures and processes about cleaning and disinfecting to ensure learning environments are clean, safe and healthy. The opportunities and challenges presented by the necessity of distance learning, providing food to under-served students who might not otherwise have access to meals, and significant State funding challenges on the horizon.  CASH was born in conflict, and we are meeting these challenges as we always do through education and advocacy.

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