Smart Growth and Schools

Posted by on October 14, 2005

[posted from the Comm-Org listserv]

Hard copies available FREE by calling (800) 490-9198.
http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/schools.htm

The U.S. EPA and The Council of Educational Facility Planners International (CEFPI) developed this publication to explain why and how communities can employ smart growth planning principles to build schools that better serve and support students, staff, parents, and the entire community. While a first-rate education in a safe facility must always be the primary consideration when making school construction decisions, a growing number of communities are using these investments to meet multiple goals — educational, environmental, health, economic, social, and fiscal.

Each community should use its education dollars to both fulfill academic considerations and to express the values and vision of the community. When school districts collaborate with community leaders about investments, the community benefits. This publication helps communities invest in schools that will give children the best possible education, use taxpayer dollars wisely, and improve the quality of life for all citizens. Includes case studies and model state and local policies. For a .pdf version of this publication, go to:

http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/schools.htm