The selection and planning of sites for school facilities can be critical and difficult due to the varied and complex demands schools must satisfy. This publication addresses the many factors that need consideration during the process of site selection, planning, development, and use. The report examines not only the site selection and planning processes, but also playground planning, recreation and athletic fields planning, and the North Carolina agencies and statutes that are involved. Specific considerations include analyses of the surrounding community or territory; of building access and security; of the surrounding natural environment and available support services; of landscaping, utilities, and vehicular traffic; and of playground equipment and safety. Final sections provide athletic field layouts for track and field events; football, soccer, and baseball fields; and basketball, volleyball, and tennis courts. (Contains 14 references.) (GR)