Local school districts aren't the only education institutions enamored of brick-and-mortar projects:
Ball State University students will see a lot of changes to campus in the coming years - a new residence hall, a renovated dining hall, a high-tech media building and a new recreation center.
The university isn't alone in its construction boom - other Indiana schools are building or planning new facilities to attract students and support academics.
Indiana University trustees approved in September an estimated $55 million plan to improve and expand athletic facilities. Last month, Purdue University opened new pharmacy lab space almost twice the size of the school's previous lab. Indiana State University is planning a new $24 million recreation center and recently completed an $8 million renovation of a three-story residence hall.
Educators hope the new facilities can attract students.
Build it and they will come? Did all these people go to the same seminar? Can pretty new campuses substitute for quality courses and good instructors? Do students want a pleasant environment or a shot at a good future?
