Examines how simpler school building monitoring systems can be the answer to a school district's maintenance needs, particularly in cold climates. The Sensaphone system which can be configured to monitor any number of building systems is described. (GR)

Describes one custodian's cost-effective approach for resolving black scuff marks on flooring and staving off their return. An eight-step cleaning program is detailed. Cautions that the largest obstacle to proper handling of floor problems lies in the lack of a proper maintenance schedule. (GR)

Describes how a Plainfield (Indiana) middle school got parents and students more involved in their school through widespread participation in sports. Handling the costs associated with widespread participation, scheduling sporting facility times, and potentially diluting team quality are addressed. (GR)

Presents the opinions of four security experts on the issue of guns in schools. The experts respond to the following questions: will schools ever be free of weapons; will card access systems become common in public schools; will metal detectors solve school security problems; and will students ever be issued bullet-proof vests along with…

Provides guidelines that maintenance staff can use to help make sporting grandstands safe through preventive measures and paying attention to all exposed areas. Recommends using maintenance-and-inspection checklists that also have comments sections. Explores inspections of guardrails, areas beneath grandstands, concession stands, and exit routes.…

Discusses how the Burnsville (Minnesota) expanded its high school classroom space by buying a shopping mall and converting it into classrooms. Renovation costs and classroom layout are briefly discussed; a floor plan is included. (GR)

Discusses a holistic approach to preventing moisture penetration of exterior walls in modular school buildings. The problem of roof leaks in modular structures is examined as are approaches to water management, roof waterproofing, the problem of condensation, and the design of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems as it affects water…

Discusses how early learning facilities can help children develop stronger learning potential when their environments nurture curiosity and enhance learning opportunities. The need for early learning centers is addressed and facility design considerations are explored. (GR)

Discusses why school construction costs are rising so rapidly and the factors that will affect a school's building project. Tips on the decisions school boards can make to lessen the cost impact are highlighted. (GR)

Examines the planning requirements for designing a middle school's science classroom, including the areas of casework and sinks, surfaces, furniture, gas, storage, power, ventilation, and safety issues. Photographs are included. (GR)

Provides advice on how school districts might reduce energy costs in an era of electric industry deregulation. The competitive environment is described along with suggestions about joining purchasing groups to achieve pricing discounts. Final comments reveal the importance of energy contract negotiation. (GR)

Examines issues concerning outsourcing student transportation services: cost; management needs and capabilities; goals; and politics. Critical areas of transportation management are highlighted such as personnel management, student management and discipline, risk management, fleet analysis, and routing and scheduling. (GR)

Discusses ways to make carpet maintenance in schools easier and effective for keeping carpeted areas in schools attractive and long lasting. Covers cleaning tips for basic spills, ideas for staying on top of stains, and suggestions for eliminating odors. (GR)

Explores different K-6 classroom designs that address the changing learning-space needs of students. The hexagonal modular design is described as one answer to a classroom that is flexible as well as accommodating to educational technology, now and into the future. (GR)

Assesses the current state of educational-technology integration across the country and examines whether the technology, networks, electronic resources, and support exist to meet the education system's learning goals. While schools are viewed as doing well in attempting to integrate technology, maintenance and operational support are problems…