October 2014
On the Cover
By Michael Fickes
The school-choice movement has set off an intense national debate about vouchers and charter schools.
Features
Facilities (Learning Spaces)
By Ellen Kollie
Here's how energy benchmarking is helping some school districts reduce energy consumption, thereby gaining energy savings. It may be just the tool your district needs.
Safety & Security
By Brett St Pierre
Improving school security with visitor monitoring and management software.
Athletics, Fitness and Outdoor Spaces
By John Davids, Bill Robertson
New design trends are making pools more functional and cost-effective.
Facilities (Learning Spaces)
By Scott Berman
The correct fencing system may require elements unique to your campus.
Technology (Enhancing + Engaging + Connecting)
By Cameron Moredock
Changing the way schools communicate by using a Unified Communications business phone system.
Athletics, Fitness and Outdoor Spaces
By William Hastings
Master planning is imperative for any institution that expects its needs will grow and evolve in the future in order to ensure the effectiveness and efficiency of every space, program and investment.
Columns
Emerging Technology
By Mike Raible, Andrew LaRowe
The design and up-fit of educational facilities should be the result of a whole systems approach and not one of designing and installing isolated pieces and parts.
A Final Thought
By Paul Abramson
Common core has been around for hundreds of years.
Fire & Life Safety
By Mike Halligan
As important as the fire mitigation plan itself.
Business Practices
By Jeff Feyerer
Bringing context to data confusion.
Trends In Green
By Terrance R. Liette
The bottom-line benefits of the EPA's ENERGY STAR program.
Editor's Note (The View From Here)
By Deborah P. Moore
An Unnecessary Cost Or A Benefit?
Maintenance & Operations
By Alyce Honore’-Hubert
Successfully managing facilities in a climate of change.
Departments
Case History (Real-World Solutions)
Building Blueprint (Facilities in Focus)
By Todd Cyrulik
Primary care spaces are no longer stuck in an unused closet.
Extras
Security
Is your security technology working?