A BOLD MODEL FOR RURAL SCHOOL DEVELOPMENT In one of North Carolina’s smallest, lowest-wealth counties, a decaying school system faced over 60 years of deferred maintenance and no viable funding path. With limited tax revenue, traditional financing was impossible. Enter an innovative public-private partnership (P3) between Jones County and Firstfloor, transforming what seemed like an unattainable dream into a sustainable, debt-light reality. Through creative finance structuring, including tax credits, grants, and a zero-interest loan, the total cost of ownership was slashed from $101.4 million to $13.6 million over 40 years—the result: a state-of-theart, net-positive energy school built with no tax increase. The facility generates 175% of its energy needs via solar panels, geothermal wells, and advanced energy systems. It serves as both a school and a community hub, with spaces designed for adult education, recreation, and future reconfiguration. Delivered on time despite a hurricane, the building symbolizes resilience and vision. Students now learn in sunlit, open environments that double as tools for teaching sustainability. Through Firstfloor’s “Energy Wise” program, students monitor and analyze real-time energy data—bringing lessons home and creating a ripple effect of environmental awareness. This project isn’t just a school; it’s a catalyst for cultural and economic transformation in Jones County. Robert W. Ferris AIA, REFP, LEED AP CEO/President Firstfloor / SfL+a Architects Jones County K-12 SfL+a Architects & Firstfloor are proud to support Jones County
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