Offers guidelines and a checklist to use when buying a computer. (WD)

Describes benefits of West Allegheny (Pennsylvania) School District's decision to outsource the management of its technology services. Benefits include improved efficiency, increased technical expertise, cost-effectiveness, personnel stability, and organizational focus. Lists important points to consider when selecting an outsourcing firm. (PKP)

Contracting for school maintenance in Vancouver (Washington) has improved custodial care and provided more than 20 CETA jobs while saving money. (Author/WD)

Discusses research on the cost and benefits of government-funded universal preschool education. (Contains 12 references.) (PKP)

To help educators evaluate the cost effectiveness of their district's reading program, this article shows how New Haven (Connecticut) Public Schools approached five crucial factors: creating an environment conducive to reading, organizing and managing a reading program, staffing the program, selecting and using materials, and fostering reading…

The Boston school system saved $3 million by renovating the old Boston Gas Company building rather than building a new school. (WD)

Reviews several studies examining long-term academic, economic, and social benefits of investment in early childhood education. Includes the High/Scope Perry Preschool Project, the Chicago Child-Parent Center Program, the Abecedarian Project, and Head Start. (Contains 10 references.) (PKP)

Several Colorado and Kansas school systems are having their school buses rebuilt commercially, saving $5,000 to $17,000 per bus. In deciding whether to replace or rebuild buses, districts should consider age and mechanical condition, local climate, safety concerns, and regulatory requirements. (MLH)

Since 1983, when the David Douglas Public Schools (Portland, Oregon) converted 30 buses to propane fuel, the district has saved $75,000 in fuel and maintenance costs. Propane is priced consistently lower than gasoline and burns cleaner. Since propane engines do not require a carburetor, there are fewer maintenance problems. (MLH)

An upstate New York district's energy-conservation measures over the past 19 months have saved $376,000 that can be invested in academic and additional energy-saving programs. The district advises developing people-oriented strategies; updating structures, systems, and equipment; finding appropriate resources; and investing in the future. (MLH)

A cost/benefit analysis technique is recommended for school board members who need to evaluate alternatives presented for board action. The model involves four parts: product and evaluation, alternatives, cost analysis, and cost/benefit comparison. (Author/WD)

An Experienced superintendent of public schools and a professional negotiator offer their conflicting arguments on the issue of whether the superintendent should be the board's chief spokesman during collective bargaining.(WD)

Six small Arkansas school districts consolidated to improve the quality of education and to give citizens more value for their taxes. Citizens in all six communities approved construction under the same roof of a new elementary school and a new high school. Students' tests scores have improved, the dropout rate has declined, and more graduates are…

A Louisiana school district has cut equipment repair costs by 50 percent and reduced the repair time for most damaged equipment by offering part-time supplemental employment to school staff. (MLF)

Seventeen important things to keep in mind when considering the purchase of athletic, gym, and playground equipment. (Author)