Modern playgrounds provide a system of linked play modules used with creative accessories to yield a series of interaction options for children. These designs offer opportunities for physical development, mental enhancement and imaginative play, and they are easy to maintain. (JD)

Discusses the management of a school theater facility. Discusses the role of the theater manager at Smoky Hill High School. Discusses the creation of the plan to oversee the operation and scheduling of the theater facility. Includes a copy of the contract form for using the theater. (SR)

The possibility that electric and magnetic field radiation poses a health hazard should be recognized during the planning and designing of a school. A preconstruction assessment of possible exposure should be evaluated before the start of construction. (MLF)

Discusses the research and planning process involved in developing a college performing-arts center. Explores the questions to be answered in conducting a needs analysis, defines the four types of performance spaces to consider, and discusses the option of designating a facility as an arts center. (GR)

Discusses educational facility planning for windows and doors that helps ensure long-term performance. Planning issues cover energy efficiency, accessibility, aesthetics, security, and costs and quality. Screen-repair tips are highlighted. (GR)

Examines the renovative strategies used to redesign a Milwaukee school that supports the traditional Montessori style of learning. Photos and a floor plan are included as is information on the principle stakeholders in the school's development. (GR)

Presents three examples of campus sports centers whose design and construction had to overcome some challenging location problems. Photos and project costs are included. (GR)

Examines Sinclair Community College's (Dayton, OH) development of their 75,000 sq.ft. Center for Interactive Learning where the limits of technology in education can be experimented with, explored, and tested. Design planning, building function, design features, and furniture and finishes are discussed. (GR)

Reviews the new Information and Technology Building at the University of Calgary, noting that the building is one of the most significant examples "green" institutional design in Canada. The article explains the design planning process, which was greatly influenced by the faculty's request to have operable windows.(GR)

Describes the tasks of a construction project manager: listening, offering alternative solutions, translating needs into facilities components, assuring adequate funding, and tracking and facilitating the project. Also asserts that there should be one person handling all phases of the project for the customer. (EV)

Presents two examples of Texas university and college campuses considered beneficiaries of the best and most beautiful campus master plans. The campus planning processes for the University of Texas at Austin, and Southern Methodist University (Dallas) are examined. Both examples represent schools who have recently instigated new initiatives to…

Each month "American School & University" provides a mix of thought-provoking features, how-to-articles, industry reports, exclusive surveys, new sections, insightful columns, new product introductions and case histories to assist education officials in better performing their jobs. This May 2004 issue includes the following: "Taking The LEED"…

Currently, in the United States, 75% of school buildings are in need of repair or renovation. The current physical condition of those school buildings and the effect they have on educational achievement has been a major topic of concern among policymakers, community members, parents, taxpayers, and educators. Just to bring the United States'…

Securing appropriate facilities can be a significant challenge for those intending to open a charter school. Although, like all public schools, charter schools receive per-pupil dollars from the state, they generally receive considerably less. Additionally, because traditional public schools rely on their district to provide their school…

If the world of education had a crystal ball, even its own visionary might feel a bit of uncertainty. Perhaps one of the furthest ideas from the minds of those considering the future of education facilities is that in 50 years, there will be no education facilities. One reason given for this belief is that 50 years worth of technological…