Better Classrooms Start with Quality Light

When schools go quiet for summer break, the real work begins behind the scenes. It’s the ideal time for facility managers and maintenance teams to tackle lighting upgrades—and the classroom is the best place to start.

A smart lighting retrofit doesn’t need to be overwhelming. In fact, with the right plan, you can go from outdated fluorescent lamps to energy-efficient, controllable LED systems in just a few steps. Not only can you find a plan to match your budget, but many utilities also offer rebate opportunities, making the upgrade even more cost-efficient. (Check out Keystone’s Rebate Tool for more information.)

Here’s how to approach your classroom lighting upgrade using a Good / Better / Best strategy.

GOOD

LED Type B Tubes (Simple Lamp Upgrade)

Keystone offers the widest range of LED tubes on the market—so it’s easy to match the lamp to the task. In addition, our online Rebate Tool can help you discover available utility rebate opportunities for your lighting project, lowering costs and increasing your ROI.

BETTER

Retrofit Troffer Kits

If your classrooms still house bulky fluorescent fixtures and you want a cleaner look without opening the ceiling, Keystone’s Future Fit Troffer Kits are the answer. These kits use the existing fixture mounting, so there’s no need to breach the plenum or disturb ceiling tiles—an especially important detail in older buildings with asbestos concerns.

Customer Example:

Angleton Independent School District used Future Fit kits to minimize disruption and reduce power consumption by more than 60%. Each troffer included Power and Color Select, allowing for adjusting wattage and CCT in the field, for additional flexibility.

Benefits: 

• No ceiling disturbance, easy install
• Standardized fixture with customizable wattage and CCT output
• Extended product lifespan

BEST

Troffer Kits + Integrated Smart Controls  

For the most effective and up-to-date solution, combine Future Fit troffers with SmartLoop—Keystone’s intuitive wireless lighting control system. Using Bluetooth mesh and simple commissioning via mobile app, schools can configure light zones, automate scenes, and fine-tune brightness per classroom.

Customer Example:

Circleville City Schools added SmartLoop to its classrooms. Teachers gained control of their lighting, adjusting levels for group work, video presentations, and quiet time—all from a wall-mounted keypad.

Benefits: 

• Customize lighting by activity or time of day 
• Wireless sensors for occupancy and daylight 
• Improved student comfort and focus 
• Easy-to-use app and wall controls

Conclusion:

Smart lighting saves energy and creates better learning environments. And with rebate programs available, the ROI is faster than ever. Starting with LED lighting for classrooms lets you tackle the most-used spaces first—and build a path toward full campus modernization.