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GAO Reports on Schools

Resources for Schools

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The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) has published a number of reports to Congressional requesters on School Facilities. You can download the PDF files here or order copies directly from GAO.

"Conditions of America's Schools"

GAO surveyed school officials across the country on the physical condition of their facilities. The survey projects that the nations' elementary and secondary schools need about $112 billion in repairs and upgrades to restore them to good condition. Although two-thirds of America's schools are reported to be in good overall condition, about 14 million students attend schools needing extensive repair or replacement. Also, problems with major building features, such as plumbing, are widespread even among schools said to be in adequate shape. Nearly 60 percent of America's schools reported at least one major building element in disrepair; most of these schools had multiple problems.

"America's Schools Report Differing Conditions"

Schools in unsatisfactory condition can be found in every part of the country. However, a GAO survey of schools nationwide found that schools needing relatively greater repairs were those in inner cities, schools in the West, schools with 50.5 percent or more minority students, and schools with 70 percent or more poor students. More than 14 million children are being taught in school buildings needing significant repairs to restore them to good overall condition. At the same time, GAO found that a new school in excellent shape, conforming to all federal, state, and local mandates, might be located only a few blocks from an operating but deteriorated school building.

"Profiles of School Conditions by State"

This report profiles the condition of school facilities in the 50 states and the District of Columbia. Each profile discusses the condition of school buildings and building features, the adequacy of environmental conditions, the extent to which facilities are meeting the functional requirements of education reform and technology, the range of funding needed to bring schools into good overall condition, and the money needed to address federal mandates for managing and correcting environmental hazards and providing access to programs for the disabled.

How to Order Copies of These Reports from GAO

To order multiple copies from GAO ( www.gao.gov exiting EPA), the first copy of each GAO report or testimony is free. Additional copies are $2.00 each. Orders for 100 or more copies mailed to a single address receive a 25 percent discount. Make your check or money order payable to the Superintendent of Documents. To order using VISA or MasterCard, include the account number, the expiration date, and the cardholder's name as it appears on the card.

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