Hundreds of variables must be considered when undertaking even the smallest construction project. When renovating a still-occupied seven-hundred-bed residence complex, however, the details to manage seem endless. Effective communication among all parties--especially students--is essential to completing the project successfully. (Author)

Describes a roofing disaster and states the necessity for total uncompromising control of the entire roofing process: (1) select the best system; (2) design and write tight specifications; (3) ensure that the system is correctly installed; and (4) maintain the roof properly. (MLF)

The structural standing seam roof has the advantages of ease of application, low maintenance, and low life-cycle costs. Explains and illustrates how the system's concealed clip attachments are designed so that the roof panels can expand and contract independently of the insulation. (MLF)

Replacing an outdated sports field lighting system with new equipment can increase safety and save energy and maintenance dollars. Provides guidelines, based on current industry recommendations and using metal halide lamps, for updating field lighting or evaluating a proposal for new field lighting. (MLF)

Recent technological advances in roofing materials and systems provide new options for meeting school reroofing needs. Describes materials, installation methods, and the benefits of engaging a roofing consultant. (MLF)

The higher original cost of standing seam metal roofs is offset by excellent long-term performance. Two reroofing projects offer a comparison of relative operating and maintenance costs. (MLF)

School buildings are in desperate need of repair or replacement according to a recently released report by the federal General Accounting Office. Funds earmarked for facilities have been siphoned off to pay for school programs. School districts are searching for inventive and aggressive ways to finance repairs. (MLF)

Lists more than 50 architectural firms, many of which have dozens of completed school buildings to their credit. The general listing contains information about the firm, its design philosophy, the areas the firm serves, its services, and how much of its work is with schools. This information is summarized in a table. (MLF)

As Chicago has discovered, small schools make pursuit of systemic school improvement more manageable. To succeed, restructuring must begin with a group of like-minded teachers. Schools must be constructed vertically, allow considerable choice, and be autonomous. Sidebars show individual students' attitudes toward gangs and deteriorating school…

Describes the renovation of the library at Walnut Hill School for the Arts (Natick, Massachusetts). Topics discussed include initial planning; packing up the collection for storage; dealing with construction delays while maintaining some library service; moving into the new space; student and teacher reactions; and the effects on library use. (LRW)

Describes a hypothetical situation (a year-long planning process involving a superintendent, school board, and community) intended to remind administrators of the key elements in facilities planning that are inherent in their roles as educational leaders. (SR)

Examples of inservice programs and procedures at two hypothetical high schools reveal the principal's true role in promoting positive change through staff development. With school improvement at stake, the principal must concentrate on commitment, collaboration, communication, and coordination. (MLH)

Illustrates how Mount Saint Vincent University (Halifax), by upgrading the control and monitoring of one building or section of the school at a time, could produce savings in energy and operating costs and improve the environment. Explains a gradual, "building block" approach to facility automation that provides flexibility without a…

Discusses the trend toward smaller college residence halls and their amenities as a means of attracting students to live on campus. Provides data from the 9th Annual Residence Hall Construction Report that assessed average college and university residence hall construction costs and types of amenities offered, and presents examples of new…

Discusses the planning process of renewing old school facilities through the imaginative use of a district's existing resources. The following five planning and implementation steps are examined: the evaluation of existing resources; reconfirming the district's educational philosophy; compiling key facility program information; recognizing the…