An annual survey of school maintenance and operations (M & O) funding concludes, among other detailed findings, that budgets continue to shrink in the face of a weak economy--the sixth year of dropping budgets and the smallest level since the survey began. (EV)

A roof system's warranty is an essential detail of which every purchaser should be aware. Addresses different types of warranties offered, what a manufacture warranty covers, and important features all warranties should include. Additionally, benefits of warranties, five common loopholes in warranties, and five guidelines for a purchaser to follow…

The principal is viewed as the one responsible for the opening and occupation of a new school. Lists 17 questions a newly appointed principal needs to have answered. Stresses the importance of operating an efficient and effective maintenance and operations program. (eight references) (MLF)

Discusses the prevention of high roof repair costs by implementing a roof-maintenance program as part of a total building-condition assessment. Assessing roof conditions and establishing a critical priorities list are examined as are the five key elements to properly managing a roof system. Final comments address ways to maintain the…

Discusses the key questions facility managers should ask during the selection process for a facility-maintenance software program. Questions include ease of use, asset modeling capabilities, ease of reconfiguration, and software scaleability. (GR)

Discusses the advantages of placing school handwashing stations in the adjacent hallway in terms of space conservation, traffic management, cost savings, and facility maintenance. Also addressed are issues of privacy, meeting American with Disabilities Act requirements, and reducing vandalism. (GR)

Describes a facilities-management software program that helps managers better document and understand maintenance backlogs, improvements, and future cyclic renewal needs. Major software components are examined including a software tool that filters, groups, and ranks projects to help determine funding requests. (GR)

Discusses the extent of damage being caused to colleges and universities from accumulated deferred maintenance (ADM) and why it is happening. Public policy implications are discussed along with highlights from case studies of institutions that have used practical approaches to retire their ADMs. (GR)

Describes how a metal roofing system can offer a variety of cost and design benefits when retrofitting a facility. Discusses the available options in metal roofing systems, steps to take when initiating a retrofit, and suggested precautions, such as moisture control, when installing the new roof. (RJM)

Discusses how annual boiler maintenance can help cut fuel costs and prevent downtime. Outlines a cleaning program, which includes inspecting the fireside of the boiler, checking the refractory, and checking the waterside. Describes other maintenance measures, such as checking hydraulic fluid levels, and offers tips for analyzing combustion. (RJM)

Reveals how Ohio's Central State University avoided state closure with a bold mission to rebuild both the academic programs and the facilities. What the new century holds for maintenance, software, card systems, contract services, and security and online purchasing are discussed. (GR)

Discusses why an offer of free roofing help for a school can be very costly, as several New Jersey schools found out the hard way. Offers advice on selecting a qualified roof designer. (EV)

Provides advice on developing an effective floor and carpet-care program for public schools. Considers eight primary elements: writing cleaning procedures; establishing accountability policies; providing quality-assurance guidelines; making daily and periodic assignments; developing a continuous quality-improvement program; providing on-going…

Discusses the need for custodial training and presents training tips. Also examines how to identify what specific training may be needed for a particular school, the training areas that need frequent repeating over time, and ideas for conducting effective training classes. (GR)

Guided by clear planning principles, and under the custodial care of a governance council, the model strategic planning process at Carroll Community College is evidence-driven, connected to budget decisions, and continuously refreshed.