CP - Why this workshop is important

Successful Administration of School Construction Projects

Why This Workshop is Important

Similar to taking on the construction of your own home, the school capital construction experience is a major but infrequent event in the life cycle of a superintendent (and school community). Many school superintendents have a general lack of experience in school construction administration. They are vulnerable to the profit maximizing tactics of providers, and are open to the indifference or incompetence of others. The superintendent must maximize his/her understanding of the school construction process and take steps to protect the school district throughout administration of the project.

This workshop will review the construction process from the superintendent’s perspective and give practical advice and suggestions for the successful administration of the entire construction process. Participants will learn the life cycle of construction projects (Pre-Project Considerations, Design Stage, Bidding, Construction, Close Out), the roles and responsibilities of each of the professional parties, special issues (bonding, contracts, unions, liens, risk, liability, insurance), how to stay out of trouble, and how to get out of trouble if entangled. Materials will be practical and useful.

Workshop Faculty

James Mills, Ph.D.

Niagara University, Educational Leadership
Superintendent of Schools ( 18 years-Retired)
Past President, NYSCOSS

Jim Mills has worked as superintendent of schools for eighteen years. During that period he has gained considerable knowledge in the administration of school construction.

Jim’s school construction experience is extensive. His experiences range from the initial conceptualization of an octagon building design on a paper napkin to litigation and mediation with multiple architectural firms. He has guided his districts through projects that have utilized incentive aid in the 90’s to the most current Excel aid currently available from New York State. He has a solid understanding of building aid and its application. He has worked with a single clerk of the works model on simple projects, to a full scale construction management company for larger projects. The technology incorporated into the Silver Creek school project in the early 90"s was considered to be among the most advanced in the state at that time. Jim has faced the challenges of construction delays, contractor negligence, and community misunderstanding. Jim is well qualified the major issues involved in school construction and to advice on areas to avoid in order to make your project successful.

Workshop Administrator

James M. Merrins, Ed.D.

Jim Merrins is program administrator of the Superintendent Development Program and Cycles of Success. He has sixteen years experience as Superintendent of Schools, twelve in the Fredonia Central Schools and four years as Superintendent and Business Administrator in Honeoye Central Schools. During his career as superintendent he has administered eight school construction projects. He is New York State certified as a School District Administrator (SDA) and School Business Administrator (SBA), and has taught school finance and school law at SUNY colleges.

Workshop Sponsors

Superintendent Support Programs
Greater Southern Tier BOCES (LEA)