Galaxy E3 Elementary School in Boynton, Beach, Fla., has received LEED Platinum certification for its environmentally friendly design and construction. The Palm Beach district says Galaxy is the first school--public or private--in Florida to receive a platinum rating--the highest designation awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council.

The 109,000-square-foot campus opened in August 2013 and replaced a 53-year-old school that had been on the site.

"The LEED Platinum designation is an amazing achievement that places Galaxy E3 in the upper echelon of being an energy efficient, eco-friendly school center that will make a lasting impact in conservation and sustainability," says Principal Edmund Capitano.

Environmentally conscious construction is now district policy in Palm Beach County; new construction projects must follow environmental standards required for LEED certification. Nine district-operated schools have received LEED certification, and certification is pending at four other schools.

Among the sustainable features at Galaxy E3: solar power, preferred parking for electric cars, a four-acre natural habitat, and a two-story Wonderment Center with interactive exhibits that reinforce the school’s Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math focus.

The architect is Zyscovich Architects, and the builder is Pirtle Construction.