Discusses ideas for adapting old school buildings to meet current needs. (JF)

Domes and bubbles are being utilized to create innovative environments for learning. (Author)

The very nature of the Diversified Occupations program and the specialized needs of its students require a rather extraordinary facility. (Author)

Explains the following 10 ways to contain costs: cooperate in purchasing; negotiate prices; ask for extras; rent your facilities; sell your training; buy in bulk; go with cheaper, lesser known vendors; look for ways to save on small items; use retirees as tutors; and develop a network on cost containment. (CT)

Research shows that for effective learning to occur, children must be actively involved. They need space to work with a wide variety of materials, share ideas, and present their findings. Architects are working to produce designs featuring large common areas or large complexes devoted to specific interests. Working in an open environment…

Design flexibility allows a new auditorium at an Illinois high school to be three theaters in one. While the large auditorium supports 1,200 seats, two rotating platforms can divide the large space into a 240-seat small theater and a 240-seat recital hall, leaving a 720-seat auditorium in the center. (MLF)

Examines security issues that planners must address at the programming and schematic design phase in key areas of the school building. They include the front door, safe halls and stairs, positive classrooms, and secure assembly. (EV)

Discusses planning, specification, and installation of student lockers, asserting that for the two basic types of lockers, corridor student lockers and athletic lockers, design considerations must focus on space requirements and ease of supervision. Discusses centralized versus decentralized configuration and locker size and type. Includes a chart…