Examines the process of constructing a new school library. Highlights include organizing the planning team, working with the architect, planning the environment and the details, and preparing for the grand opening. (AEF)

Describes a mobile computer lab set up in a converted bus that is used by fourth graders as part of the math curriculum. The program, which emphasizes problem solving and spatial visualization, also addresses gender differences and in-service teacher training. The physical arrangements, including provisions for computer security, are described.…

Discusses ergonomic design considerations for library media centers. Specific design variables, including temperature and humidity, noise, illumination, color, and windows are discussed; and computer workstation design requirements are presented that address furniture and keyboard design, monitor and display features, software issues, and…

This second in a series of articles on planning for instructional computer networks focuses on site preparation, installation, service, and support. Highlights include an implementation schedule; classroom and computer lab layouts; electrical power needs; workstations; network cable; telephones; furniture; climate control; and security. (LRW)

American's aging schools need replacing. New schools should enhance teaching and learning and accommodate the needs of all learners; serve as community centers; involve all stakeholders in the planning process; provide for health, safety, and security; make effective use of all available resources; and be adaptable to changing needs. Examples of…

The New Zealand Ministry of Education is undertaking a project to provide information that can assist schools to design quality environments that will improve student learning outcomes. The project started in 2004 with the ministry surveying boards of trustees, principals, teachers and students on what features of property design they believed…

As teacher educators, the authors visit numerous learning environments. Each school has its own unique characteristics and personality. Some schools seem to have a magnetic draw, filling the senses with energy, wonder and intrigue. This energy, writes the authors, stems from a symbiotic relationship, a flow of spaces that work together…

Model Policies in Support of High Performance School Buildings for All Children is to begin to create a coherent and comprehensive set of state policies that will provide the governmental infrastructure for effective and creative practice in facility management. There are examples of good policy in many states, but no state has a coherent set of…

The Savoy/TMA Public Education Campus encompasses the 3.5 acres that includes the Savoy Elementary School and the former Nichols Avenue School, now the fully modernized Thurgood Marshall Academy Public Charter High School (TMA) and a recreation center sponsored by the Department of Parks and Recreation. As a part of public initiatives to better…

New facilities at schools and universities are being designed that embrace the latest learning techniques and philosophies. The article describes two facilities that exemplify this trend: Thomas Jefferson Hall at the United States Military Academy at West Point, and Cass Technical High School library in Detroit, Michigan. Libraries, once thought…

This paper presents a transcript of the speech delivered by the author at the US Senate Environment and Public Works Committee Hearing, Washington, DC, May 15, 2007. The author talked about how the Healthy Schools Network works to ensure that every child will have an environmentally healthy school that is clean and in good repair. The organization…

A Local Area Network (LAN) allows computing equipment to share information from any device on a network with other devices on the same network. Uses for LANs in schools include sharing printers and programs, centralized file sharing, access to library databases and catalog, cost-effective connection to external networks, electronic mail, school…

Quite often, the people responsible for spending school facility dollars have little information with which to make wise investment choices. The process is typically driven by vendors, consultants, and public opinion. The result is that the schools become a poorly performing component of the education process. This document was developed to…

Designed to provide instruction for New York State inspectors and school administrators completing the annual "Fire Safety Report," this document provides information regarding: (1) the Regulation and Code requirements; (2) inspection and enforcement processes; (3) disputes and procedures for appeal; and (4) financial considerations…

This guide for school administrators and staff is intended to be used in conjunction with the "Guidelines To Provide Uniform Wiring Service for Telecommunications in North Carolina Public Schools" as they: begin planning for cable implementation in the schools; work with architects and builders in the design and implementation of cabling…