Book excerpt: This all-inclusive guide to building and renovating schools covers every step of the process – from initial planning, needs assessment and design, right through moving into the new facility. An essential resource for anyone concerned with new school construction or renovation, including architects and engineers, contractors and project managers, facility managers, school administrators and school board members, building committees, community leaders, and anyone else who wants to ensure that the project meets the schools’ needs in a cost-effective, timely manner. The contributors to this book – architects, construction project managers, contractors, and estimators who specialize in school construction – provide start-to-finish, expert guidance on the process. FEATURES: Includes guidance on: Planning and design Selecting a design team Green design standards and technologies Integrating computer and building automation technology Security equipment, design approaches and cost issues Design considerations for specialty spaces like performing arts centers, library/media centers, computer labs, and science and art classrooms.