Outlines the components involved in more accurate long-range facilities planning. Describes the ways three school districts accomplished their facilities planning. (MD)

Thousands of schools contain dangerous asbestos which threatens the safety of students and teachers. The Environmental Protection Agency can be contacted to inspect and advise on this problem. Suggestions are offered for school personnel who suspect their school may contain asbestos. (DF)

In alternative financing a private company provides the capital and expertise for improving school energy efficiency. Savings are split between the school system and the company. Options for municipal leasing, cost sharing, and shared savings are explained along with financial, procedural, and legal considerations. (MLF)

In response to the current criticisms of the educational system, a method for incorporating the use of symbolism to spread positive information about schools is outlined. It uses stories, rituals, evaluation procedures, humor, and other activities. (MD)

Administrators are advised of the background, costs, politics, and public relations of containing or removing hazardous asbestos from school buildings. (MJL)

Thermography, a diagnostic tool that combines photography and infrared sensing, permits direct measurement of apparent surface temperatures. Building energy losses can be detected and correction measures planned. Criteria for the use of thermography are provided. (MLF)

This publication is the third of three publications to assist school business officials with the challenges of improving school facilities. This report explores issues relating to technology implementation in school buildings, including cost and finance issues, space requirements, classroom configuration, equity in technology availability,…

This factsheet is for anyone responsible for modernization projects in California's public schools where materials containing lead may be disturbed or where lead abatement is planned. It explains the state requirements for properly dealing with lead hazards so that children and workers are protected. Its sections address why to be concerned about…

This is a report of a study of safety issues at one urban middle school in New Jersey. The study had four objectives: (1) to identify the safety concerns of the staff and students of the school; (2) to determine effective strategies for improving safety; (3) to ascertain ways to implement strategies for improved safety; and (4) to determine ways…

This companion document updates an April 1998 volume on designing schools to use solar energy as a power source. Volume 2 presents numerous case studies of solar installations in new and existing schools across the United States and Europe, updates and presents new examples of solar education programs, and offers an updated resource listing of…

This manual is intended to be used by parents, teachers, school administrators, students, community organizations and residents as a guide to identifying, planning, implementing, and maintaining large- and small-scale school improvement projects. Its sections address: (1) key terms and concepts; (2) types of school improvement projects; (3)…

This guide provides a framework for community involvement in the complex process of modernizing or building new public school buildings. The guide reflects two fundamental premises: (1) The condition and design of school buildings and grounds affect the quality of education and the vitality of the school and its community; and (2) Broad community…

This report presents an overview of recent efforts to promote small schools by first reviewing the rationale for small schools based on recent studies linking school size and various educational outcomes, followed by arguments supporting larger schools. Succeeding sections explore the following four ways to reduce the negative effects of school…

A specifications pamphlet offers methods, ideas, and suggestions on how music educators can upgrade their existing music facilities or design new ones correctly. Guidelines address room acoustic fundamentals, how to critique a music room, hints on upgrading acoustic weaknesses, and general tips to follow when trying to maximize acoustics when…

This document provides detailed guidelines for implementing the Tasmanian government's policy on computers in schools and identifies the building planning issues to help schools develop realistic budget estimates when creating their Learning Technologies Plan. The document's scope covers computer placement and building modifications; furniture…