There are several reasons why appraisals of school sites are necessary--the reasons run the range from the importance of performing a postoccupancy review to examining the need for new facilities. This guide helps educators and community leaders, as well as technical experts in school facilities, to complete the process of school facility appraisal. The appraisal criteria are categorized into six areas: (1) the school site; (2) structural and mechanical features; (3) plant maintainability; (4) school building safety and security; (5) educational adequacy; and (6) environment for education. Each of the six criteria is discussed at length in the first section of the guide, with an emphasis placed on the most important aspects of each. The second section includes specific directions for the appraisal of school facilities. Checklists are provided that incorporate each of the six elements mentioned above. A rating scale is also provided to further aid in accurate appraisal. The appraisal instruments are adapted for use at each of the three educational levels: elementary, middle, and high school. A glossary is appended. (37 references) (LAP)