Ameresco and Matchbook Learning Schools of Indiana have broken ground on the new Match High School and Career Center in the US. 

The school will cater to grades nine to 12 and will have a facility focusing on vocational learning and early career exploration. 

Specifically, the Career Center will provide in-depth vocational education in construction trades, welding, engineering, and entrepreneurship. 

Last year, Matchbook Learning was selected for the US Department of Energy’s (DoE) Renew America's Schools Grant, which provides funding for facility upgrades and energy improvements. 

The $5.3m grant, which saw more than 1,000 applicants, will partially fund the development of the Match High School and Career Center.

Matchbook Learning CEO Amy Swann said: “Providing students with a modern educational environment is a challenge top-of-mind for school leaders across the country, and we are invigorated by the US Department of Energy’s Renew America’s Schools Grant to embark on this comprehensive school infrastructure development project support energy efficiency and sustainability.” 

Meanwhile, Ameresco was chosen to manage the design, engineering, and construction of the project after a rigorous request for proposal process.  

The campus will feature two buildings, with the main school at 1401 Indiana Ave and the career centre at 1141 W 16th Street. 

Spanning a combined 54,000ft², the development will see more than $20m in improvements and energy upgrades.  

The DeE grant will finance energy improvements, including a new 165kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system with a battery energy storage system, providing clean and renewable backup energy to power the school’s operations.  

The 16th Street building is set to open for the 2024/25 school year on 1 August 2024 while the Indiana Avenue location is expected to welcome students in January 2025.