Another calendar year is ending without any clear signs that the financial situation is likely to improve for schools and universities across the nation. Four years into this economic drought, education institutions of all sizes from coast to coast have been forced to close facilities, increase class sizes, eliminate programs, postpone building upgrades and defer maintenance. As 2011 winds down, decision-makers at schools and universities looking ahead to the new year must concentrate, as they have for the last four years, on setting priorities, aiming for greater efficiency, and managing wisely the resources they do have. Presented are 10 key areas that administrators should be focusing on in their efforts to keep their institutions operating effectively. The 10 areas are finance, construction, sustainability, distance learning, new technology, community outreach, maintenance, reduced space, environmental health and safety, and security.