This publication recommends that school districts include a legal plan in every school construction project. The author discusses negotiating agreements with the project architect and construction manager early on; exercising due diligence in selecting the project team; determining proper levels of professional liability insurance; clarifying…

As serving as its own contractor, a small district in western Montana saved money, had better control over the project, and inspired public confidence. Major advantages were cost savings, controlling the pace of construction, and the ability to cope with change orders. (MLF)

An independent consultant retained for a school building project will monitor, troubleshoot, and see that the proper project management is being performed by the architect, engineer, and contractor. (Author/MLF)

In school construction projects a great deal of work and planning needs to happen before ground breaking starts. Lists consistent factors that should always be considered when setting up a facility-design timeline. (MLF)

This chapter presents an up-to-date analysis of prevailing state wage laws that affect educational facility construction or renovation and highlights relevant prevailing wage litigation in many states. Currently, 13 states have no prevailing wage laws for public works. The other 37 states and the District of Columbia do have prevailing wage laws…

The California legislature's Joint Legislative Audit Committee has issued a report on the design-build versus the design-bid-build process and offers a hybrid approach combining the two systems as a way of achieving the greatest cost efficiency at the least risk on public agencies. The cost benefits of faster delivery of the design-build method…

Discusses the construction phase of the school planning process. Presents an overview of the different contractual relationships between an owner and contractors. (Author/MLF)

Outlines crucial administrator responsibilities during the planning and construction phases of a new or remodeled school building. Includes designing the program, contracting the architect, and establishing and selling a bond issue. (MLF)

An examination of statutes and case law reveals that in most states the employment of architects and engineers by public school districts is exempt from competitive bidding procedures. (MLF)

This chapter reviews 1982 cases related to school property. Cases involving citizen efforts to overturn school board decisions to close schools dominate the property chapter, and courts continue to uphold school board authority to close schools, transfer students, and sell or lease the buildings. Ten cases involving detachment and attachment of…

This publication, the result of a review of state school construction regulations, was developed for the purpose of providing an up-to-date guide on current laws, regulations, and the technology of the building profession. It is intended for architects and engineers as well as for school superintendents and boards of trustees, all of whom are…