The flexibility of mixed methods research strategies makes such approaches especially suitable for multisite case studies. Yet the utilization of mixed methods to select sites for these studies is rarely reported. The authors describe their pragmatic mixed methods approach to select a sample for their multisite mixed methods case study of a…

Proper planning of school facilities is critical for all school districts no matter how large or small, whether major construction is in the works or the district is managing enrollment declines. When school districts properly plan for their school facilities they have better schools, more public use and higher value for public spending. This…

This guide is designed to assist school districts in selecting school sites that provide both a safe and supportive environment for the instructional program and the learning process, and gain state approval for the selected sites. The guide includes a set of selection criteria that have proven helpful to site selection teams, information about…

Discusses the common mistakes in school design and construction and how to avoid them. Mistake avoidance in mastering planning, site acquisition, drawing changes, budgeting, school design process, construction management, and the architect's role are highlighted. (GR)

School site selection is critical since the site can affect the size and shape of the school, which in turn can materially affect the educational program and opportunities for students. This document provides guidance for California school districts to help them select school sites that provide both a safe and supportive environment for the…

Discusses the necessary elements in business planning that can help make building a new campus less difficult. Successful plan administators provide their thoughts on establishing the need for new facilities, closing the funding deal, and selecting and developing the site. (GR)

Explains how a commons area can serve both the school and community by becoming a cost-effective, space-saving asset to the school building. Examines the commons area as a place for interaction; discusses subdividing it into smaller functional units, locating it, and related lighting and heating issues. (GR)

The State of Alaska Department of Education has created a handbook to give assistance and direction to its school districts and communities in determining the suitability of various building sites for educational facilities planning. This handbook establishes a set of basic site selection elements and offers suggested evaluation criteria for…

This paper presents a study on how the South Carolina school site selection process can affect the quality of the students' experience and access to their schools. Focusing on students options for getting to school, e.g., hazards that prevent students from walking to school and the size of school sites that place schools on the edge of…

This handbook provides guidance on applying and gaining apportionment for public school construction in California; the procedures for site selection, and the development of cost estimates and construction plans; and guidance on preparing for the construction phase and bid approval. Final sections cover change orders and the close-out audit of…

This publication discusses those factors that must be recognized during the process of school site selection, planning, development, and use within North Carolina. Issues discussed in the site selection process include the technical requirements when selecting a school site, such as topography and drainage, access and traffic, security and safety,…

A special report of the California Legislature's Joint Legislative Audit Committee addresses the school site acquisition process to attempt to discern how the system has allowed a minimum of nine Los Angeles public schools to be built on toxic lands. The report examines two such sites, the Jefferson Middle School (JMS) and the combined elementary…

This document examines three locations that schools have utilized in partnership with private enterprises to help ease school overcrowding: downtown areas, airports, and malls. The downtown model serves students whose parents work in a downtown area. The mall model targets high school students who want an alternative education with job training.…

The selection and planning of sites for school facilities can be critical and difficult due to the varied and complex demands schools must satisfy. This publication addresses the many factors that need consideration during the process of site selection, planning, development, and use. The report examines not only the site selection and planning…

Provides guidelines for making schools more energy efficient that includes the development of an architectural (usage) program; the prudent use of lighting that combines natural and artificial light augmented by interior finishes; and the use of site orientation, landscaping, and building organization. An example of one school's use of this type…