The 2012-2013 school year represents a pivotal juncture for DC Public Schools. Last spring, Mayor Gray and Chancellor Kaya Henderson introduced "A Capital Commitment," their ambitious plan to dramatically accelerate student achievement in the district over the next five years by providing all of their students with a safe, academically…

Air pollution is air pollution, indoors or out. Good indoor air quality (IAQ) contributes to a favorable learning environment for students, protects health, and supports the productivity of school personnel. In schools in poor repair, leaky roofs and crumbling walls have caused additional indoor air quality problems, including contamination with…

Provides guidelines for inspecting the roof of a facility. Suggests that periodic roof inspections should be performed on a quarterly or semi-annual basis and after severe storms. Proactively identifying potential problem areas is the best defense against roof leaks. (SLD)

Describes how the dirt and grime tracked onto school building floors can be minimized with a few simple steps, such as walkoff mats, and using vinyl composition tiling. (EV)

Advice on how a college physical plant director can improve his/her department. (MLF)

A systematic roof maintenance program is characterized by carefully prepared long- and short-range plans. An essential feature of a systematic approach to roof maintenance is the stress on preventive measures rather than the patching of leaks. (Author)

Describes the professional mold remediation process that was performed at Lane Community College in Oregon. (EV)

Discusses how school restroom cleaning can be simplified by a standardized maintenance procedure. Details sources of odor, steps for spot cleaning and deep cleaning, and cleaning tools such as microfiber wipes and mop heads. (EV)

Discusses the importance of attention to plumbing in college facilities, offering examples from various campuses. Addresses preventive maintenance, technology, and piping materials, including the debate between cast iron and PVC for drain pipes. (EV)

Discusses the strategic use of staff and the right materials to keep public areas in colleges and universities in the best shape and attract new students. Suggests making public areas a priority in budgeting and examines the various cleaning and maintenance problems that need attention when planning for maintainability. (GR)

The preventive maintenance program adopted in Oakland, California, is proving to be a great success in maintaining a favorable environment while protecting the physical plant and extending its useful life at the least overall cost. (Author/MLF)

Presents tips from experienced facility professionals for the purchase, installation, and maintenance of flooring and carpet. (EV)

Concerning the issue of molds and indoor air quality in school buildings, addresses the importance of planning and design for building operations and maintenance, the effects of indoor air quality, and ongoing documentation and training. (EV)

Discusses "picture framing"--when roof shingles appear to bulge at the joints of insulated roofing panels. Explains how lack of ventilation contributes to the problem and offers some solutions. (EV)

Describes a model integrated pest management (IPM) program for schools used in Monroe County, Indiana. Addresses how to implement an IPM program, specific school problem areas, specific pest problems and solutions, and common questions. (EV)