Saving energy through energy efficiency improvements can cost less than generating, transmitting, and distributing energy from power plants, and provides multiple economic and environmental benefits. Local governments can promote energy efficiency in their jurisdictions by developing and implementing strategies that improve the efficiency of municipal-facilities and operations and/or encourage energy efficiency improvements in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. This guide describes how local governments can work with school districts to improve energy efficiency in existing, renovated, and new K-12 schools; reduce energy costs; and create a range of environmental, economic, and educational benefits. It is designed to be used by school district energy program managers, school districts and school boards, local government agencies, and mayors and city councils. Readers of the guide should come away with an understanding of options to improve energy efficiency in schools, a clear idea of the steps and considerations involved in developing and implementing them, and an awareness of expected investment and funding opportunities. (Contains 3 tables, 3 figures and 14 footnotes.)