Presents data from the American School & University's 10th Annual Residence Hall Construction Report that show dormitories are costing more per square foot to build while also becoming larger accommodations. Data tables are provided as are highlighted discussions that include residence hall design flexibility, environmental concerns and building…

Describes the minimalistic design features of a new addition to a suburban New Jersey elementary/middle school that expanded classroom space and created better traffic flow. Photos and a floorplan are included. (GR)

Explores the key stages required to develop a successful roofing system for educational facilities. Advice provided includes selecting consultants and contractors, bid evaluation, points to cover with contractors, and monitoring installation and documentation. Guidelines are offered to assure that the roof will provide the promised protection. (GR)

Discusses how difficult choosing the right roofing material is and the different factors that can effect roofing material choices. Discussed are material selection based on roof slope, aesthetics, fire codes, and interior usage and conditions. The questions an architect might ask when selecting manufacturers of roofing products are listed. (GR)

Discusses the alternative funding avenues school districts have used to support facility construction and improvements when tax levies and state aid are not enough. Acquiring donations, creating lease-purchase agreements, and using tax increment financing are highlighted. (GR)

Addresses the national problem of deferred maintenance of educational facilities and illustrates one private school's (Chicago's St. Ignatius) fall into disrepair and successful restoration and expansion. Data are presented on the percentage of aging schools in American from pre-1950 to post 1985. (GR)

Explains how working with architects, involving the community, and developing a comprehensive program can eliminate many of the problems encountered when planning a school renovation. Steps in program development are highlighted, including discussions on each of the factors in building programs, such as enrollment trends, space needs, technology…

The University of Maryland at College Park installed 25 surveillance cameras to combat crime. A minimum of disruption occurred because unused twisted pair wires left in place when the conversion to a fiber optic telephone system was made could be used for the camera installations. The campus is safer, and its budget is intact. (RE)

Describes the online energy management control system at San Diego State University, California. Tips for the smooth operation of systems already installed or those under consideration are presented. Following these tips can save campuses time, money, and energy. (RE)

Describes the challenge that Illinois faces in trying to bring its older schools up to date. Discusses the debate over replacement versus renovation, enrollment and projected rises in this rate, the need to accommodate advanced technology programs, and the billions of dollars it will take to render these structures suitable for instruction. (RJM)

Presents construction comparative data from the 27th Annual Official Education Construction Report on education construction spending for 2000. Data tables show where the construction is happening by region, projected spending areas through 2003, new school and retrofitting costs, and the types of retrofits being performed. (GR)

Examines the use of, and procedures for, a school walkthrough with architectural candidates to help school officials in selecting a design firm that fits their particular circumstances. Included are typical questions architects ask and special situations that may signal the need for a school briefing. (GR)

Discusses how state courts are forcing states to shift their focus of funding for school facilities to the neediest school districts. State problems in prioritizing the distribution of school funds are examined. (GR)

Discusses how a detailed plan can help schools set the right priorities for modernization projects. Examines planning elements such as identifying needs, prioritizing capital outlay funds, establishing budgets, identifying funding sources, and creating schedules. (GR)

Provides data on school construction projects for 2001 revealing the highest ever 12-month total of dollars spent on completed projects. Details of these figures and regional cost analyses are included. (GR)