This booklet is designed for administrators who are being encouraged to build a new, or remodel an old, school facility. It describes the planning process from perceived need to the hiring of an architect; the duties of the architect, bondsman, and contractor; school bonds and finances; disability access requirements; force account; economical maintenance; the chronological order of construction; an overview of building systems and materials; applicable state laws; construction costs; and sample construction forms. Also included are Oklahoma State Fire Marshall fire resistive considerations and safety. Appendices contain a checklist for designing maintenance-free buildings; samples of the forms used in building construction projects such as contracts, bonds, and affidavits; and examples of energy conservation measures. (GR)