School Facilities: America’s Schools Report Differing Conditions

Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the condition of the nation’s school buildings, focusing on differences in the: (1) condition of schools; (2) amount of funding needed to repair or upgrade facilities; and (3) number of students attending schools in inadequate condition.

This report examines the range of physical conditions reported by public schools across the United States, highlighting disparities in the quality and adequacy of school facilities. Drawing on a national survey of school districts, the U.S. Government Accountability Office found that while some schools were in excellent shape, many others reported problems such as leaking roofs, outdated HVAC systems, and inadequate space for instruction and support services. The report shows that schools in urban and high-poverty communities were significantly more likely to report poor facility conditions. It also emphasizes how deteriorating infrastructure can hinder the implementation of education reforms and negatively affect student learning environments. Designed to inform federal and state policymakers, this report underscores the need for a more equitable approach to capital funding that prioritizes communities where facilities pose a barrier to educational success.