Describes how one school district resolved problems and saved money with its classroom computers with the help of a formal technology plan and its students. Describes how students were organized to troubleshoot for computer-related problems, the mutual benefits derived from the effort, and several best-practice tips to use on such an approach. (GR)

Assesses the current state of educational-technology integration across the country and examines whether the technology, networks, electronic resources, and support exist to meet the education system's learning goals. While schools are viewed as doing well in attempting to integrate technology, maintenance and operational support are problems…

Describes one decision-making approach for quickly implementing a communications network into a school district. The use of volunteer labor for wiring installation, computer selection focusing on standardization to aid in troubleshooting, and an intranet system to achieve efficiency and learning opportunities for teachers and administrative…

Explains why school administrators should review their campus Master Plans every five to 10 years, and highlights guidelines for developing a Master Plan. Three examples are provided of how school administrators succeeded in developing their campus Master Plans as are suggested tips for Master Plan development that can guarantee positive outcomes.…

Presents examples of innovative public/private partnerships that have successfully provided affordable telephone access to school classrooms. Contact information for each of the programs is provided. (GR)

Discusses the issues to be considered when replacing an old gymnasium floor with a new. Issues involving aesthetics, safety, maintenance, and costs are addressed. (GR)

Discusses the new emerging partnerships community colleges are using to enhance the services they can offer to their students and the surrounding community without destroying their budgets. Two examples are presented of community college partnerships with several corporations to provide space for workplace development. (GR)

Examines housing strategies several college facilities managers used to cope with the problem of overcrowded residence halls. Also highlighted are tips to help facilities managers determine if their solution is to build additional housing. (GR)

Explores the benefits of multi-year bid contracting of university furniture contracts and offers tips on how to be successful at this approach. Areas covered include careful development of specifications, establishing clear ground rules for pricing and contractual escape routes, and comprehensive and careful bid contract writing. (GR)

Discusses how some college administrators have found "over-the-counter" cures for deferred maintenance problems resulting from budgeting shortfalls. Catch-up approaches discussed include those involving planning, prioritizing, partnering, and gift giving. (GR)

Describes the online energy management control system at San Diego State University, California. Tips for the smooth operation of systems already installed or those under consideration are presented. Following these tips can save campuses time, money, and energy. (RE)

Describes one Kansas school district's efforts to connect all the classrooms in 23 schools through computers, and to do so with wiring that would not become overburdened. The decision-making process to use fiber optics is examined. (GR)

Examines the pros and cons of having a hotel associated with a college or university and tips on how school administrators can develop this type of partnership. (GR)

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)

Describes the Open Knowledge Initiative (OKI) and its use as a resource for higher education institutions interested in developing web-based learning capabilities. Highlights the OKI collaborative effort and its goal to ensure that the web tools it designs are installable and supportable on smaller campuses and by smaller institutions. (GR)