The New York City Prototype Schools Program was initiated in 1987 as one of the strategies to design and build new facilities more quickly and at a reasonable cost. The prototype school building features five different blocks that can be configured in a variety of ways to meet individual site requirements. (MLF)

The new Alfred Elementary School in Alfred, Maine, complements the town's typical New England architecture. Behind the traditional facade is a modern school building with classrooms clustered in groups of three. The gymnasium and cafeteria stand together and can be kept open in the evening for community activities. (MLF)