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)

Design flexibility allows a new auditorium at an Illinois high school to be three theaters in one. While the large auditorium supports 1,200 seats, two rotating platforms can divide the large space into a 240-seat small theater and a 240-seat recital hall, leaving a 720-seat auditorium in the center. (MLF)

Discusses the advantages of placing school handwashing stations in the adjacent hallway in terms of space conservation, traffic management, cost savings, and facility maintenance. Also addressed are issues of privacy, meeting American with Disabilities Act requirements, and reducing vandalism. (GR)

Examines changes in the traditional school dining hall and the prevailing trends in food-service design. Explores dining-hall space flexibility and multi-functionality and the need to cater to student preferences for brand names and choice. (GR)

Describes one Texas high school's efforts to obtain funding for a new music facility and the planning process behind its design. Acoustics and storage space considerations are discussed. (GR)

Examines the educational-facility-planning issues for restructuring schools to meet the future demands of students and educational programs. Issues discussed include the educational environment, building access, technology and its effect on the learning environment, specialty areas and ancillary space requirements, and community involvement. (GR)

The creation of usable space for gatherings and socializing is an important consideration in any campus planning program. The University of California-San Diego has a large outdoor assembly area. An addition at Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo encompasses an existing pedestrian path. A new building at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks, is designed as a…

Explains how school media centers and libraries are transforming into bustling workrooms and why they deserve serious consideration during the design process. The main factors to consider in the planning phase of a media center are reviewed. (GR)

Describes how the Hammond School District (Indiana) solved the problem of fitting the correct amount of space needed for students, teachers, and technology. Examines the district's solutions for furniture needs through the use of full-scale mockups of classroom arrangements; and the wiring, power needs, and lighting. (GR)

Discusses four factors in designing a school music room that satisfies student, teacher, and school needs. Explores acoustics in terms of cubic volume, room shape, sound isolation, acoustical treatment, and mechanical systems. Also examines the floorplan for space, traffic control, and access to related areas. Concluding comments address equipment…

Provides two examples of the trend towards community and school district partnering: a recreational facility in Missouri; and a corporate training and conference center in Michigan. The possibilities and the pitfalls as demonstrated from these partnerships are discussed. (GR)

Over time, Bellevue, Washington, Public Schools will be able to renovate each of its 27 schools every 20 years. Site-based input for modernization worked in the district's most recent project. At Eastgate Elementary School a team was composed of the entire staff of 20 teachers, plus the principal and support personnel. A center room was created by…

Describes what is ahead for the automated school library, including changes in funding, physical space, and the role of the librarian. Discusses the first wave of change that is already taking shape: the card catalog system. (GR)

Explains how Project Oriented Development Stations (PODS) provide a flexible facilities solution that can fit within any elementary school, and that combines custom furnishing with technology, curriculum, and hands-on learning. An explanation of the POD approach and an example of its development, usefulness, and funding is provided. (GR)

Presents an example of one school's solution to space needs for handling play and practice times for its multiple sports teams. Explains the school's planning efforts towards agreeing to, then gaining public support for, a major renovation project. (GR)