This action will allow some districts to decrease the bond issue required for participation in school construction projects. Sources may include funds available, local gifts, local tax arrangements or other legal alternatives. School districts must be permitted to establish the pupil enrollment size for school buildings. The OSFC currently implements the statutory requirement that buildings house at least 350 students. Exceptions are provided for in statute but additional exceptions such as high incidence of poverty are warranted.
Research indicates that school buildings can be too large for effective management.
Research also indicates that there is an advantage to smaller buildings in meeting the educational needs of disadvantaged students. A process must be established to ensure a consistent initial evaluation of school facilities in all school districts . The process should be published in the Ohio School Design Manual. Appraisal Instrument is used, ideally school facilities should be evaluated by three to five appraisers to help ensure a thorough and accurate appraisal. Responding to local needs.