Discusses design and construction problems of schools built in the 50s and 60s including open classrooms, bigger schools, and schools without windows. (PKP)

Using simple materials, bold colors, and an exterior that complements its surroundings, this earthquake-proof school (enrollment: 460) cost $2.8 million. It has received numerous awards and enthusiastic response from administrators, teachers, students, and the community. (PB)

The Boston school system saved $3 million by renovating the old Boston Gas Company building rather than building a new school. (WD)

Describes the design of Lowell, Indiana, High School. (JF)

Successful school construction projects require careful planning. School boards and administrators should consider architectural firms and contracts carefully. Reduce costs by hiring subcontractors, requiring documentation for proposed changes, negotiating frequent site visits by architect, organizing board subcommittee to review work, and…

By repeating innovative, modular building design and by teamwork among school executives, an architect, and a capital expenditure manager, this school system cut $32 per square foot from anticipated building costs. The district also achieved security, low maintenance, and pleasant learning environments. (PB)

Back in 1988, Emmett, Idaho, built the first monolithic dome school. Now, school boards in Arizona, Missouri, Florida, Minnesota, and New Mexico are among those that have voted to build domed school buildings. A monolithic dome is a steel- reinforced, concrete structure with a smooth, round surface that is inspired by the shape of an egg. (MLF)

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)

Describes and illustrates an innovative new elementary school in Livonia, Michigan that has a 7,000 square foot library. (JF)

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)

Among the nine steps developed by the Elloree Public Schools in Orangeburg County, South Carolina, are taking a crash course in school construction, considering hiring a consultant, defining goals, developing a management plan, creating a project description, drawing up a list of prospective architects, and soliciting presentations. (JBM)

Describes 21 design trends that will shape the future look of schools. Eventually a new kind of school architecture incorporating both high-tech and postmodern components will evolve. A sidebar cites 10 reasons why direct cost comparison for school construction can rarely be justified. (MLF)

Describes fast-track, a method for saving time and construction costs by phased or overlapping construction--e.g., constructing such elements as the foundation before the rest of the building has been completely designed. (JF)

An Oklahoma school system gives construction-trades students on-the-job training in building school facilities. The district has saved in construction costs; many students have gone on to employment in the field; and local contractors are supportive of the program. (MLF)

A special report from experts in school finance, construction, and design covers the rating of school bonds, estimating building costs, and elementary school design. (MLF)