“We worry about what a child will become tomorrow,
yet we forget that he is someone today.”
– Stacia Tauscher
Today we run a status check on the stream of technical and management standards evolving to assure the highest possible level of security in education communities. The literature expands significantly from an assortment of national standards-setting bodies, trade associations, ad hoc consortia and open source standards developers. CLICK HERE for a sample of our work in this domain.
School security is big business in the United States. According to a report by Markets and Markets, the global school and campus security market size was valued at USD 14.0 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach USD 21.7 billion by 2025, at a combined annual growth rate of 7.2% during the forecast period. Another report by Research And Markets estimates that the US school security market will grow at a compound annual growth rate of around 8% between 2020 and 2025, driven by factors such as increasing incidents of school violence, rising demand for access control and surveillance systems, and increasing government funding for school safety initiatives.
Because the pace of the combined annual growth rate of the school and campus security market is greater than the growth rate of the education “industry” itself, we’ve necessarily had to break down our approach to this topic into modules:
Security 100. A survey of all the technical and management codes and standards for all educational settings — day care, K-12, higher education and university affiliated healthcare occupancies.
Security 200. Queries into the most recent public consultations on the components and interoperability* of supporting technologies
Video surveillance: indoor and outdoor cameras, cameras with night vision and motion detection capabilities and cameras that can be integrated with other security systems for enhanced monitoring and control.
Access control: doors, remote locking, privacy and considerations for persons with disabilities.
Panic alarms: These devices allow staff and students to quickly and discreetly alert authorities in case of an emergency.
Metal detectors: These devices scan for weapons and other prohibited items as people enter the school.
Mass notification systems: These systems allow school administrators to quickly send emergency alerts and notifications to students, staff, and parents.
Intrusion detection systems: These systems use sensors to detect unauthorized entry and trigger an alarm.
GPS tracking systems: These systems allow school officials to monitor the location of school buses and track the movements of students during field trips and other off-campus activities.
Security 300. Regulatory and management codes and standards; a great deal of which are self-referencing.
Security 400. Advanced Topics. NFPA 731 Standard for the Installation of Premises Security Systems
As always, we reckon first cost and long-term maintenance cost, including software maintenance for the information and communication technologies (i.e. anything with wires) installed in the United States. Cybersecurity is outside our wheelhouse and beyond our expertise. In order to do any of the foregoing reasonably well, we have to leave cybersecurity standards to others.
Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association
Happy National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day!
Today, we proudly recognize the dedicated men and women of MSU Police, who serve our Spartan community with courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment. Every day, our officers work to protect campus safety and foster a secure… pic.twitter.com/LndAo4TiSs
— MSU Police and Public Safety (@msupolice) January 9, 2026
Education Community Safety catalog is one of the fast-growing catalogs of best practice literature. In developing district security plans, K-12 school leaders stress that school safety is a cross-functional responsibility and every individual’s participation drives the success of overall safety protocols. We link a small sample below and update ahead of every Security colloquium.
Artificial Intelligence Tries (and Fails) to Detect Weapons in School
Could AI be the future of preventing school shootings?
Executive Order 13929 of June 16, 2020 Safe Policing for Safe Communities
National Center for Education Statistics: School Safety and Security Measures
International Code Council
2021 International Building Code
Section 1010.1.9.4 Locks and latches
Section 1010.2.13 Delayed egress.
Section 1010.2.14 Controlled egress doors in Groups I-1 and I-2.
Free Access: NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
Free Access: NFPA 731 Standard for the Installation of Premises Security Systems
IEEE: Design and Implementation of Campus Security System Based on Internet of Things
APCO/NENA 2.105 Emergency Incident Data Document
C-TECC Tactical Emergency Casualty Care Guidelines
Department of Transportation Emergency Response Guidebook 2016
NENA-STA-004.1-2014 Next Generation United States Civic Location Data Exchange Format
Example Emergency Management and Disaster Preparedness Plan (Tougaloo College, Jackson, Mississippi)
Partner Alliance for Safer Schools
Federal Bureau of Investigation Academia Program
Most Dangerous Universities in America
Federal Bureau of Investigation: Uniform Crime Reporting Program
* Interoperability refers to the ability of different technologies or systems to communicate and work together seamlessly. In the context of school security technologies, interoperability can help improve the effectiveness of security systems and make it easier for school personnel to manage and respond to potential security threats. Here’s what we look for:
Total #construction spending for September 2026 ($2,186.1 billion) was 1.9% below the revised August 2026 estimate ($2,227.4 billion).
Learn more: https://t.co/vO6ZkjBJMY
#CensusEconData #ConstructionSpending https://t.co/Je6ggmOLRf
— U.S. Census Bureau (@uscensusbureau) November 2, 2026
At a $137.4B annual rate, educational settlements represent the second-largest building construction market in the United Stateshttps://t.co/VIRZythRdBhttps://t.co/5NGDbqJIFk@uscensusbureau
Saugatuck High School | Allegan County Michiganhttps://t.co/pnQlUONrDj pic.twitter.com/w0ZyiuEYCL— Standards Michigan (@StandardsMich) October 1, 2026
Total #construction spending for July 2026 ($2,157.6 billion) was 0.5% below the revised June 2026 estimate ($2,167.7 billion).
Learn more: https://t.co/vO6ZkjBJMY #CensusEconData #ConstructionSpending pic.twitter.com/wplVG4338Z
— U.S. Census Bureau (@uscensusbureau) September 1, 2026
New Construction Release Schedule: https://www.census.gov/construction/c30/release.html
Reports are usually released at 10 AM EST the first day of every month except this month. (May 2026)
There’s been a significant redesign of the look and feel of the monthly Census Bureau reports construction activity. Today we sort through the rather more granular statistics that inform our recommendations for facility spend.
Total #construction activity for May 2026 ($2,210.2 billion) was 0.1% above the revised April 2026 estimate ($2,207.1 billion).
Learn more: https://t.co/vO6ZkjBJMY#CensusEconData #ConstructionSpending pic.twitter.com/0YZyIxT3F7
— U.S. Census Bureau (@uscensusbureau) July 1, 2026
Total #construction activity for October 2025 ($2,175.2 billion) was 0.5% above September 2025 ($2,164.3 billion).
Learn more: https://t.co/vO6ZkjBJMY #CensusEconData #ConstructionSpending pic.twitter.com/CYux8HXJ3W
— U.S. Census Bureau (@uscensusbureau) January 21, 2026
December 1, 2025
It has been 20 years since we began tracking educational settlement facility spend. Starting this month we will examine federal government data together with the best available data about space utilization to enlighten our response to the perfectly reasonable question: “Are we over-building or under-building or building ineffectively”. Use the login credentials at the upper right of our home page.
United States: Schools of Architecture
The Society for College and University Planning (Ann Arbor, Michigan)
National Center for Education Statistics
The Financial Impact of Architectural Design: Balancing Aesthetics and Budget in Modern Construction
Homeschooling
2022 International Existing Building Code










As reported by the US Department of Commerce Census Bureau the value of construction put in place by August 2025 by the US education industry proceeded at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $137.604 billion. This number does not include renovation for projects under 50,000 square feet and new construction in university-affiliated health care delivery enterprises. Reports are released two months after calendar month. The complete report is available at the link below:
MONTHLY CONSTRUCTION SPENDING August 2025 (released two months after calendar month)
Total construction activity for June 2025 ($2,136.2 billion) was 0.4 percent below the revised May 2025 estimate ($2,143.9 billion).
Learn more: https://t.co/ljpaYyKjuX#CensusEconData pic.twitter.com/TS6ewzZhc4
— U.S. Census Bureau (@uscensusbureau) August 1, 2025
This spend makes the US education facilities industry (which includes colleges, universities, technical/vocational and K-12 schools, most university-affiliated medical research and healthcare delivery enterprises, etc.) the largest non-residential building construction market in the United States after commercial property; and fairly close. For perspective consider total public + private construction ranked according to the tabulation most recently released:
$137.604 billion| Education Facilities
$155.728 billion | Power (Note data center buildout)
$69.625 billion | Healthcare
Keep in mind that inflation figures into the elevated dollar figures. Overall — including construction, energy, custodial services, furnishings, security. etc., — the non-instructional spend plus the construction spend of the US education facilities is running at a rate of about $300 – $500 billion per year.
LIVE: A selection of construction cameras at US schools, colleges and universities
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We typically pick through the new data set; looking for clues relevant to real asset spend decisions. Finally, we encourage the education facilities industry to contribute to the accuracy of these monthly reports by responding the US Census Bureau’s data gathering contractors.
As surely as people are born, grow wealthy and die with extra cash,
there will be a home for that cash to sustain their memory and to steer
the cultural heritage of the next generation in beautiful settings.
More
National Center for Educational Statistics
AIA: Billings Index shows but remains strong May 2022
National Center for Education Statistics
Sightlines: Capital Investment College Facilities
OxBlue: Time-Lapse Construction Cameras for Education
US Census Bureau Form F-33 Survey of School System Finances
New Report from Occuspace Finds U.S. Campuses Face Significant Underutilization
Global Consistency in Presenting Construction & Life Cycle Costs
FCC Environmental review of communications infrastructure | November 18
Relevant to our lament on campus antennas, towers, rooftop installations and permitting
NIST RFI: Medical Metrology and Standards | November 30
NFPA 70 National Electrical Code | Modular Data Centers — Proposed TIA 1949 October 30
tFERC Cybersecurity Monitoring of Electric Infrastructure | Comments due December 14
Cornell Donor Revolt: No Confidence Vote on President
CUNY raises record $312 million
University of Minnesota plans $225 million reduction
Teachers’ Unions Face More Competition for Influence in School Board Elections
Trump Account Proposed Regulations | October 20, 2026
University of Notre Dame: Teaching with the Columbus Murals
DOE — Bulk-Power System Security RFI | October 9
Massachusetts Fire Safety Advisory Meeting October 14
RFI: Electromagnetic Fields, Radiofrequency Radiation & Wireless Radiation Exposure | October 21
FERC Cybersecurity Monitoring of Electric Infrastructure | Comments due December 14
NIST SP 800-239 — AI Data Center Security Analysis | September 25
Public consultation on NERC computational-load standard open until September 18
NIST SP 800-209 Rev. 1 — Security Guidelines for Storage Infrastructure | September 8
NFPA 70 | TIA from AHRI on GFCI protection on HVAC equipment | September 6
“Labor omnia vicit improbus” (trans. ‘Steady, unyielding labor conquered all things’)
Georgics, Book I — Publius Vergilius Maro
Standards exist to sustain the ordinary rhythms of civilization. Behind every meal, classroom, laboratory, concert, hospital, farm, playing field and family home stands a network of standards that quietly enables daily life. Our work is to understand, improve and explain those standards in service to the educational settlements they support. ANSI Standards Action
Standards help make the world’s biggest sporting event safer and more competitive. For a brief history of #football to modern safety standards like ASTM’s performance specification for #soccer goals or standards for turf testing, read “Kicking Safety Up a Notch at the World Cup.”…
— ASTM International (@ASTMIntl) July 10, 2026
Are you curious about the impact of NIST’s work on your daily life? Our “NIST In Your State” guide is a great place to start exploring!
See how NIST is making a difference in your state.
Explore at https://t.co/Sh8bkwfLkV pic.twitter.com/ek2SEEvjCL
— National Institute of Standards and Technology (@NIST) July 9, 2026
ANSI ADA 1119-2025 covers a system for coding tooth developmental stages, improving clarity, consistency & interoperability in dental data. From pediatric #Dentistry, #Orthodontics, and forensic use, this standard improves data quality. @AmerDentalAssn https://t.co/ckytZLBprh
— ANSI (@ansidotorg) June 20, 2026
The history of the Python programming language includes NIST, where its creator briefly served as a guest researcher.
Learn more in our latest Taking Measure blog post: https://t.co/5DR8HNh281 pic.twitter.com/zkU3Z9dMHl
— National Institute of Standards and Technology (@NIST) June 12, 2026
You can view a list of all draft @NIST cybersecurity and privacy publications that are open for public comment on the Computer Security Resource Center. Your thoughtful reviews and comments are greatly appreciated and help us improve our publications. https://t.co/uOC96rxHpH pic.twitter.com/3iJoKqshN6
— Cybersecurity @ NIST (@NISTcyber) May 26, 2026
Early-bird registration is now available for the Performance-Based Façade Design (PBFD) Seminar on Durable Façades to be held September 16th to 28th in Venice, Italy. #PBFD2026 #DurableFacades #BuildingPerformance See… https://t.co/B3PcONfvHY pic.twitter.com/zBrXTeKvRF
— ASTM International (@ASTMIntl) May 20, 2026
A NIST researcher has a goal—create a viable alternative to mammograms that is pain-free, highly accurate, and can save even more lives than mammograms do. It’s possible within our lifetimes.
Learn more: https://t.co/WqJqloP5Ec pic.twitter.com/1nGdVmQoLH
— National Institute of Standards and Technology (@NIST) May 21, 2026
Come check out the ASABE 1/4 Scale Student Design Competition at our new competition site: McLean County Fairgrounds, 1106 Interstate Dr., Bloomington, IL, May 28-31. #tractor #students https://t.co/x0lZwyeecr pic.twitter.com/I2fgd24kPj
— ASABE.org (@ASABEorg) May 14, 2026
ANSI invites high school and college students to explore the impact of #Standards on society through the 2025–2026 Student Paper Competition. Students are encouraged to research and write about how standards shape industries, innovation, safety, and daily life.
🏆 #Prize… pic.twitter.com/SvE1alg5Y6
— ANSI (@ansidotorg) May 13, 2026
ASTM’s Board of Directors met in West Conshohocken, PA, April 13-15. Here is a summary of reports made and actions taken at those meetings. https://t.co/yLopmgCg7n pic.twitter.com/tJyzZt8SHc
— ASTM International (@ASTMIntl) May 12, 2026
Young professionals (including students!): make sure to sign up for the @YPC social during AIM. It will be a great time to meet other like-minded professionals in the industry. https://t.co/VIIPLLI1LE pic.twitter.com/weAjRSGJGO
— ASABE.org (@ASABEorg) May 6, 2026
NIST | USPTO | ANSI | IEEE | ICC | ASTM | ASHRAE | UL | TIA | ASME | ASCE | AGA
Michigan Standards Developers : NSF | ACI | NETA | ASABE | HL7 | RIA | JCSEE | BIFMA | PJRFSI | SAE
Global: SA | BSA | NSAI | CSA | CEN & CENELEC | ISO & IEC*
Director John A. Squires. Jack Wallace. Reggie Calhoun Jr. Chelsea Miko.
You’re not going to want to miss this. Authenticity: The Name of the Game.
Register: https://t.co/zFrg5OM4MW#AmericasBrandingAgency #NFLDraft2026 #WorldIPDay #ProtectYourBrand pic.twitter.com/SVS88rcKNb
— USPTO (@uspto) April 17, 2026
Director John A. Squires. Jack Wallace. Reggie Calhoun Jr. Chelsea Miko.
You’re not going to want to miss this. Authenticity: The Name of the Game.
Register: https://t.co/zFrg5OM4MW#AmericasBrandingAgency #NFLDraft2026 #WorldIPDay #ProtectYourBrand pic.twitter.com/SVS88rcKNb
— USPTO (@uspto) April 17, 2026
— National Institute of Standards and Technology (@NIST) April 14, 2026
We thought Project Hail Mary was “amaze amaze amaze,” but what were our thoughts on the science?
Learn more about our NISTy thoughts on this film in our latest Taking Measure blog post: https://t.co/LlOtIkTXcK
Photo Credit: Shutterstock/lev radin pic.twitter.com/xQyLX0LPQl
— National Institute of Standards and Technology (@NIST) April 10, 2026
Do you know the difference between name, image, and likeness (NIL) and a federally registered trademark?
The best offense is a good defense. Protect your brand early. Don’t get faked by deepfakes!
Learn more: https://t.co/8S79YBVUca #AmericasBrandingAgency #NIL #TrademarkBasics pic.twitter.com/MrthPvbR4e
— USPTO (@uspto) April 9, 2026
Cold #beer. Hot coffee. Spicy food. Learn how sensory scientists evaluate aroma, mouthfeel, flavors, and more in the things you use and enjoy every day. Join our guest Ali Schultz @newbelgiumbeer as we discuss sensory science on ASTM’s podcast. Listen where you get your… pic.twitter.com/hOHuoRaK9O
— ASTM International (@ASTMIntl) April 8, 2026
Smart meters generate thousands of data points each year. How do utilities keep that data consistent? ANSI C12.19-2021 defines standardized data tables for utility end devices—supporting interoperability and #SmartGrid communication. @NEMAupdates https://t.co/xsejQGX5gT
— ANSI (@ansidotorg) April 8, 2026
NEW! Download Our 2026 ASTM Standards Catalog
Find all the latest ASTM standards, books, journals, technical reports, related products, and more in our interactive catalog. Use the smart navigation to find exactly what you need and order online.https://t.co/7wUF6nw0OB#ASTM pic.twitter.com/T4lr76V29Q
— ASTM Student Fans (@ASTMStudentFans) March 27, 2026
Based on ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 55, Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy, this course covers the theory and principles of the standard. It is intended to bridge the gap between the design practitioner’s knowledge of the built environment and its thermal relationship… pic.twitter.com/4aCsGGUVSK
— ASHRAE News (@ashraenews) March 30, 2026
APRIL 30TH DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: KATHERINE & BRYANT MATHER #SCHOLARSHIP. Available to fulltime undergraduate students completing their sophomore year of college (or later), or graduate students who are pursuing degrees especializing in cement or #concrete materials… pic.twitter.com/wQLaQqJrVj
— ASTM International (@ASTMIntl) March 19, 2026
Find your place in time with an illuminating hybrid NIST lecture open to the public!
🕠Mar. 24, 5:30pm ET
🌐Learn more and register: https://t.co/0iPEVvxaWp pic.twitter.com/S10c9wBoKk
— National Institute of Standards and Technology (@NIST) March 22, 2026
The odds of picking a perfect 64-team #MarchMadness bracket are 1 in 9.2 quintillion! Like the tournament’s history, #Basketball‘s journey is full of unforgettable moments. From peach baskets to global icons, learn how standards play a key role in the game.…
— ANSI (@ansidotorg) March 19, 2026
Students! It’s not too soon to start working on your applications for the Bioprocess Startup and Fountain Wars competitions! Deadline is April 15. https://t.co/lMxIVgjb54 pic.twitter.com/3Mi8pcUd1x
— ASABE.org (@ASABEorg) March 16, 2026
Listen to the latest episode of “Standards Impact” podcast to hear about the importance of ASTM International standards to winter sports. https://t.co/x8Ze0X16yC#safetystandards #podcast pic.twitter.com/JQ9IsX4BO7
— ASTM Student Fans (@ASTMStudentFans) March 17, 2026
Born in Liscannor, Ireland in 1840, submarine inventor John Phillip Holland’s designs were adopted by the U.S. Navy in 1900. Happy St. Patrick’s Day! pic.twitter.com/X4ModlH2uD
— USPTO (@uspto) March 17, 2026
Happy Pi Day from NIST! pic.twitter.com/BcrvH016X4
— National Institute of Standards and Technology (@NIST) March 14, 2026
Risk has always been a part of human society in general and the business world in particular. Standards to create a common language and approach to enterprise risk management aim to minimize those risks. https://t.co/R6acA2tLtx#riskmanagement pic.twitter.com/79c4FtI9mC
— ASTM Student Fans (@ASTMStudentFans) March 2, 2026
Acoustics matter more than we think—and Erik Miller-Klein wants us to listen up. In this video Erik highlights that 39% of building occupants say poor acoustics hurt their ability to work. Yet, less than 10% of U.S. projects involve acoustical designers. Erik challenges us to… pic.twitter.com/Bej3bIg7jx
— ASHRAE News (@ashraenews) March 3, 2026
Last week, the USPTO welcomed our U.K. partners to America’s Innovation Agency and participated in the U.S. – U.K. IP Working Group at the Chamber of Commerce—a bi-annual, industry-led forum hosted with the BritishAmerican Business. pic.twitter.com/dwDD3MlC6t
— USPTO (@uspto) March 4, 2026
3.4 billion people. No plumbing. No electricity. Less than $0.05 per person per day.
That’s the scale—and the solution—behind ISO 30500, an international standard for non-sewered sanitation systems developed through global collaboration, led by ANSI and @AssociationAsn.
In… pic.twitter.com/47ejMbcnQ1
— ANSI (@ansidotorg) March 4, 2026
In honor of NIST’s 125th anniversary this year, anonymous donors commissioned a musical piece from composer @AlexCapMX to honor NIST and its contributions to science.
Learn more (and listen to the piece) in our latest Taking Measure blog post: https://t.co/7Alp1tbl6O pic.twitter.com/FpN3DIfNA3
— National Institute of Standards and Technology (@NIST) March 4, 2026
📣 NSAI is seeking new members for our standards committees
We are establishing new technical committees on Light Gauge Steel, Mass Engineered Timber, and the National Annex for Eurocode 5 (structural fire design).
We’re inviting designers, consultants, academics, and… pic.twitter.com/wiv17lXgp9
— NSAI (@NSAI_Standards) March 2, 2026
Dearest gentle reader… 💐 A bit of legal tea: “BRIDGERTON” is a federally registered trademark, protecting the name and entertainment services behind @Netflix’s hit series, so audiences know the true source of the romance, rivalry, and scandal. pic.twitter.com/xdy04zoxPu
— USPTO (@uspto) February 26, 2026
Australian Building Codes Board has released the #NationalConstructionCode 2025 preview, with jurisdictions able to consider adoption from 1 May 26. See how we help ensure referenced standards meet industry needs: https://t.co/Ab104VxC0o pic.twitter.com/4BEU5wBIJg
— Standards Australia (@standardsaus) February 17, 2026
For all you gearheads out there, celebrate National Diesel Engine Day by listening to one of our most popular podcast episodes so far on the International Quarter-Scale Tractor Competition! #diesel #engine #tractor https://t.co/P9Gmo9QD2s pic.twitter.com/LXcogKLv5p
— ASABE.org (@ASABEorg) February 23, 2026
Calling all artists! @DeptVetAffairs and the Veterans Day National Committee are now accepting submissions for the 2026 Veterans Day Poster Contest, with the winning design shared at VA facilities across the country. pic.twitter.com/nZBRqD0hkB
— U.S. Department of Education (@usedgov) February 25, 2026
America’s research influence is eroding as China rapidly gains ground.
Per @Clarivate, the share of Highly Cited Researchers based in the U.S. has fallen from 53% to 37% since 2014, while China’s share rose significantly.https://t.co/4r5DWvWyQ5
— AAU (@AAUniversities) February 25, 2026
Missed it live? We planned for that!
At a recent USPTO Hour, America’ Branding Agency dives into how name, image, likeness (NIL) connects with branding and trademarks – on the field, off the field, and everywhere between.
Catch the recording here: https://t.co/b3fh7aVOy7 pic.twitter.com/gvgn5HCJmH
— USPTO (@uspto) February 25, 2026
Scientists have designed experiments to show that atomic clocks tick faster when moving and slower in stronger gravity. Now, a generation of precise clocks is allowing physicists to push such measurements to new extremes.
Learn more: https://t.co/IwXXmpISy2 pic.twitter.com/YcTUrSDE1A
— National Institute of Standards and Technology (@NIST) February 25, 2026
This #NationalEngineersWeek, we celebrate the innovators transforming ideas into reality. We are proud to support the next generation of leaders through research funding, student scholarships, & industry innovation.
Learn more: https://t.co/r7QQgkMjt3 pic.twitter.com/9gQWgMuv3z
— ACI Foundation (@ACIFoundation) February 23, 2026
What’s your big idea?
Submit to #ASCE2027’s Call for Content – OPEN NOW through March 4, 2026 – for an opportunity to share it during the new flagship event for infrastructure professionals: https://t.co/wF0bm1HprT. pic.twitter.com/XM2OTGQHBJ— ASCE Headquarters (@ASCETweets) October 16, 2025
We’re throwing it back this month to our longest-selling SRM: limestone! Developed in 1910, this material was originally used by the construction industry to assess the components of its building materials. And its purpose hasn’t changed much since then. pic.twitter.com/MB5CtY4CCi
— National Institute of Standards and Technology (@NIST) February 23, 2026
From walkable skate-shoes to more comfortable fits, stronger curved blades, and balance-driven designs, patents have been sharpening ice skates for more than a century. ⛸️ pic.twitter.com/ITzdKfqanY
— USPTO (@uspto) February 20, 2026
A person dines out ~3 times/month and orders take-out ~4.5 times/month. To assure that we can safely enjoy our meals from a commercial kitchen, NSF/ANSI 4-2025 provides #FoodProtection and #Sanitation requirements for commercial food equipment. @NSF_Intl https://t.co/5JkDMgWwIm
— ANSI (@ansidotorg) February 21, 2026
Vad är en standard? Syftet med standarder är att skapa enhetliga och transparenta rutiner som vi kan enas kring. Det ligger ju i allas intresse att höja kvaliteten, undvika missförstånd och slippa uppfinna hjulet på nytt varje gång. https://t.co/zKhgPXPdpW pic.twitter.com/oKejdKSm47
— Svenska institutet för standarder, SIS (@svenskstandard) July 15, 2019
March 3, 2026, will mark 125 years of NIST!
Celebrate with us all year long and stay tuned for more. 🎉🥳 pic.twitter.com/FCuL35tKYD
— National Institute of Standards and Technology (@NIST) February 20, 2026
❄️🥇What do standards have to do with the Winter Olympics? More than you might think.
Behind the captivating performances, there is an invisible support system keeping the Games safe: standards.
Read more: https://t.co/5ky4okL9Qv#TrustStandards pic.twitter.com/gYAdSZegAn
— CEN and CENELEC (@Standards4EU) February 18, 2026
Discover how standards can help the world meet its ever-increasing need for electricity. https://t.co/dgj8v7iRvz#powergrid pic.twitter.com/E7cjegvYvX
— ASTM Student Fans (@ASTMStudentFans) February 12, 2026
Roses are red,
Violets are blue,
You’re like a standard reference material,
Reliable and true. pic.twitter.com/ensl7oc2iG— National Institute of Standards and Technology (@NIST) February 14, 2026
From Lupercalia to love letters 💌 Valentine’s Day has evolved over centuries. Today, standards assure that the chocolates, cards, and flowers we exchange are safe, reliable, and responsibly produced. #ValentinesDay #ConsumerSafety❤️🌹🍫 https://t.co/r7KMB0eUPt
— ANSI (@ansidotorg) February 14, 2026
As fans tune in to the #WinterOlympics, a reminder that inventions like U.S. Pat. 5,784,809 improved snowboard boot flexibility and comfort, while U.S. Pat, 6,523,851 enabled touring bindings for uphill climbs and downhill runs, helping athletes shred with confidence. 🏂 pic.twitter.com/4TLDVbjvoc
— USPTO (@uspto) February 10, 2026
Following an industry-wide job task analysis, the Healthcare Facility Design Professional (HFDP) Certification exam content outline will be updated starting March 1.
Apply by Feb. 28 to receive a 50% discount and sit for the HFDP exam March 1 – 31.
💡 How it works:
✔ Apply by… pic.twitter.com/lAfnFR3oK9— ASHRAE News (@ashraenews) February 11, 2026
Following an industry-wide job task analysis, the Healthcare Facility Design Professional (HFDP) Certification exam content outline will be updated starting March 1.
Apply by Feb. 28 to receive a 50% discount and sit for the HFDP exam March 1 – 31.
💡 How it works:
✔ Apply by… pic.twitter.com/lAfnFR3oK9— ASHRAE News (@ashraenews) February 11, 2026
Hut-hut-hike! 🏈 The NFL logo, Vince Lombardi Trophy design, and the terms “Super Bowl” and “Super Sunday” are all federally registered trademarks that help tell fans who’s bringing them “The Big Game.” pic.twitter.com/gJDxdqqm7J
— USPTO (@uspto) February 6, 2026
The newly revised ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2025 sets the benchmark for occupational and educational #Eye and #Face protection. 🥽 The 2025 edition provides clearer guidance on performance, testing, and marking, which helps organizations select the right protection for specific hazards and… pic.twitter.com/tkMa03s4bO
— ANSI (@ansidotorg) February 5, 2026
— National Institute of Standards and Technology (@NIST) February 6, 2026
The newly revised ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2025 sets the benchmark for occupational and educational #Eye and #Face protection. 🥽 The 2025 edition provides clearer guidance on performance, testing, and marking, which helps organizations select the right protection for specific hazards and… pic.twitter.com/tkMa03s4bO
— ANSI (@ansidotorg) February 5, 2026
APPA was founded at the University of Michigan| See our ABOUT
Day 2 at APPAU!
APPA members kept the collaborative learning going at this year’s offered courses:💡 Institute for Facilities Management, 🎒 Leadership Academy, and 💻 T3. pic.twitter.com/g8SzfMfQFH
— APPA – Leadership in Educational Facilities (@APPA_facilities) February 5, 2026
How do business leaders build trust in AI while keeping innovation alive? Our research analyzed 123 company annual reports and gathered insights from 850+ business leaders across eight countries and multiple sectors. https://t.co/PGgKR2bqfM #BSI #ArtificialIntelligence pic.twitter.com/I3skmCYL6X
— BSI America (@BSI_America) February 4, 2026
Build the Future. SAE helps pay for it. 💲
SAE Scholarships are dedicated to developing the future engineering workforce. Apply today for one (or more!) of the many scholarships we offer. Applications will be accepted all of February. Don’t delay! https://t.co/lv8eD79Ib8 pic.twitter.com/M9Ge7ZLC1w
— SAE International® (@SAEIntl) February 2, 2026
First invented by television producer Tony Verna in 1963, instant replay technology helps ensure fans see the biggest moments of the big game. Although he did not receive one for instant replay, Verna sought patents for similar inventions later in life. pic.twitter.com/hR7LwRXSI4
— USPTO (@uspto) February 3, 2026
Last week, CEN and CENELEC took part in Open Source Week, engaging with the vibrant and diverse open source ecosystem. Our colleagues Amirifar Nooshin and Yannis Chourmouziadis participated in the Open Source Policy Summit where they had constructive discussions.#TrustStandards pic.twitter.com/MxwGDFzvZ1
— CEN and CENELEC (@Standards4EU) February 4, 2026
ASHRAE is honored to welcome and host so many esteemed VIP guests at the Leadership Luncheon. This group truly represents ASHRAE’s continued commitment to collaboration with organizations throughout the built environment.#MyASHRAE pic.twitter.com/DCl8QIiS28
— ASHRAE News (@ashraenews) February 2, 2026
Join EdSoc & IEEE Educational Activities for our upcoming free webinar: The Vital Importance of Having Fun While Learning! 🎮
📅 Thursday, 5 February 2026
🕚 11:00 AM EST
📍 Virtual via Airmeet🔗 Learn more & register: https://t.co/U6o6gZ7hgH pic.twitter.com/7QRuSx04fQ
— IEEE Education Society (@IEEE_EduSoc) January 31, 2026
Join EdSoc & IEEE Educational Activities for our upcoming free webinar: The Vital Importance of Having Fun While Learning! 🎮
📅 Thursday, 5 February 2026
🕚 11:00 AM EST
📍 Virtual via Airmeet🔗 Learn more & register: https://t.co/U6o6gZ7hgH pic.twitter.com/7QRuSx04fQ
— IEEE Education Society (@IEEE_EduSoc) January 31, 2026
Check out ASTM’s ongoing efforts to support early-career professionals, including participation at a Fatigue and Fracture Symposium. https://t.co/aKlNXtJYxa pic.twitter.com/CTcsb41SDQ
— ASTM International (@ASTMIntl) January 30, 2026
Winter storms are on the way; #Corrosion is a major concern. From bridges, and utility equipment, winter’s salty conditions can hasten #Rust & degradation. ASTM B117-26 helps evaluate materials meant to withstand harsh, corrosive environments. @ASTMIntl https://t.co/qAzr3TTMXR
— ANSI (@ansidotorg) February 1, 2026
ASHRAE announces nominees for the 2026-27 Slate of Officers and Directors. Members will vote on the nominees via electronic ballot in May, including who will serve as ASHRAE President for the 2026-27 Society year. To see the full list of nominees, visit https://t.co/lJdqfCz264.… pic.twitter.com/UJnF0nC2bY
— ASHRAE News (@ashraenews) February 2, 2026
Higher voltages being introduced to power AI data centers present new electrical hazards that many codes and standards have yet to address. We’re working to solve the challenge through a new collaboration w/ @OpenComputePrj, @abbgroupnews and @eatoncorp https://t.co/NGRg8Amf98 pic.twitter.com/ZNf6husbz9
— UL Solutions (@UL_Solutions) January 15, 2026
Preservation of old standards may be useful. In converting material into an ASTM standard, form, style, terminology are areas that require particular attention. Here, we address the rationale for offering these versions of standards, steps taken to make them conform to ASTM… pic.twitter.com/ZT1LWgxqLX
— ASTM International (@ASTMIntl) January 29, 2026
I scream. You scream. We all scream for ICE CREAM CONES.🍦On this day in 1924, Carl R. Taylor patented an ice cream cone rolling machine (No. 1,481,813), automating the process of shaping flat wafers into perfectly formed cones. pic.twitter.com/adaBY2f3xV
— USPTO (@uspto) January 29, 2026
🗣️ “AI chatbots with hallucinate around 27% of the time, so we need to ensure employees have the AI literacy required to critically consider the output AI delivers” Laura Bishop PhD, BSI AI and Cybersecurity Sector Lead#BSI #TrustInAI #AIGovernance #AIStrateg pic.twitter.com/0MyIpozyiR
— BSI America (@BSI_America) January 29, 2026
The Annual Student Presentation Forum was part of the 23rd ASTM/ESIS International Symposium on Fatigue and Fracture Mechanics during November Committee Week in Atlantahttps://t.co/4eP9VVYQAw#fatigueandfracture pic.twitter.com/53Pi87sdlx
— ASTM Student Fans (@ASTMStudentFans) January 28, 2026
📣 New edition of the X9 AI Study Group Newsletter just dropped!
This issue explores AI tools and real-world use cases shaping the financial sector while also diving into regulatory readiness and risk management.
👉 https://t.co/rfLmltYcWI pic.twitter.com/oCtCQ0IRNb
— ASC X9, Inc. (@ASCX9Inc) January 26, 2026
Great turnout at the X12 standing Meeting. Especially, given the difficult weather across the country. A wonderful spread of food, as well. Great to see everyone and certainly appreciate the participation. pic.twitter.com/XlbODYcY40
— X12 (@X12standards) January 27, 2026
Huge congratulations to Mark Lotspeich of Dynalectric Oregon for winning NECA’s 2026 Innovator of the Year at the #MEPConference! 🏆
This recognition reflects his dedication and commitment to pushing the industry forward. pic.twitter.com/aa91xJtJ6g
— NECA (@necanet) January 27, 2026
The 2026 IEEE WIE Day Ambassador Call is NOW OPEN!
Are you ready to champion Technology with Purpose around the world?
Apply now:
🔗 https://t.co/33ZqSCF4Af
Learn more about WIE Day:
🌐 https://t.co/urqJDcsOm0#IEEEWIEDay pic.twitter.com/miu7II4nLJ— IEEE WIE (@IEEEWIE) January 26, 2026
Congrats to Scott Osborn, PE, retired professor, biological and agricultural engineering, University of Arkansas, for being named an ASABE Fellow! Osborn was selected for in teaching the next generation of engineers, invention and innovation in systems. https://t.co/UFTWhIrS2i pic.twitter.com/Q95ufpymMI
— ASABE.org (@ASABEorg) January 26, 2026
The 2026 ASHRAE HVAC&R Student Paper Competition concluded on January 22nd with presentations from four finalists. The four-person judging panel selected Felix Ekuful as the winner of the 2026 competition. His research focus is on developing advanced control strategies to improve… pic.twitter.com/RDbLiLopIK
— ASHRAE News (@ashraenews) January 27, 2026
See how standards help ensure that gypsum board and related products are properly manufactured and installed. https://t.co/t30BHWzo9D#safetystandards pic.twitter.com/8CTK4766k2
— ASTM Student Fans (@ASTMStudentFans) January 26, 2026
Closing on Wednesday!
NSAI has launched the public consultation for S.R. 66:2015 +A1:202X Standard Recommendation providing guidance to wastewater treatment products in conformance with the EN 12566 series of standards.
This public consultation closes on 28th January 2026 so… pic.twitter.com/xvDUltbn7z
— NSAI (@NSAI_Standards) January 26, 2026
Just about every airspeed sensor in the United States can trace its calibration back, either directly or indirectly via calibration laboratories, to a wind tunnel on NIST’s Gaithersburg, Maryland, campus.
Learn more: https://t.co/GK9BLGMreU pic.twitter.com/DaCCR4hfDX
— National Institute of Standards and Technology (@NIST) January 23, 2026
🚧 In 2025, fall protection topped OSHA’s list of the most common violations, with 5,914 reported. ISO 45001 helps organizations create a culture of safety that reduces injuries. 🦺💼@OSHA_DOL @isostandards #WorkerSafety #OSHA https://t.co/NFcEpqXBJ9
— ANSI (@ansidotorg) January 24, 2026
Discover opportunities to get involved. Learn about in-person and virtual events to attend:https://t.co/fbNDMWiMLv pic.twitter.com/BK1pXCLINb
— IEEE Standards Association | IEEE SA (@IEEESA) December 19, 2025
🤝Full house for the biannual Technical Body Officers Seminar focusing on key aspects of the standardization system, this day was again a valuable opportunity to exchange experiences and best practices with peers, strengthening our collective technical leadership. #TrustStandards pic.twitter.com/K2wujDboS7
— CEN and CENELEC (@Standards4EU) January 22, 2026
Some states are bracing for below-zero temperatures, and it’s important to prepare now. @kfdmnews #BuildingCodes #BuildingSafety365 #ColdWeather https://t.co/T8lJqGdEK5
— IntlCodeCouncil (@IntlCodeCouncil) January 24, 2026
If you design or operate health care facilities, Standard 170 sets the minimum.
ANSI/ASHRAE/ASHE Standard 170 defines the minimum ventilation requirements for health care facilities and is developed in partnership with FGI and ASHE for adoption by code-enforcing agencies.The… pic.twitter.com/7ibciPtMRn
— ASHRAE News (@ashraenews) January 23, 2026
* ISO and IEC have opted out of the X-social media platforms. FYI: X is 13 times the size of BlueSky in terms of scale and reach.
In terms of total spend, the US elementary and secondary school industry is about twice the size of the higher education industry according to IBISWorld. About $100 billion is in play every year for both (which we cover during our Ædificare colloquia); with higher education spending only half of what elementary and secondary school systems spend on facilities.
Note that some districts are including construction for faculty housing.
Our focus remains on applying global standard to create educational settlements that are safer, simpler, lower-cost and longer-lasting — not on the hurly-burly of local school bond elections. We recommend consulting the coverage in American School & University for more detailed and more timely information.
Grand Valley State University Statement of Financial Position 2023: $1.057B
Located on the First Floor of the Mary Idema Pew Library*









The Dutch founded America’s greatest city, got pushed out, and then took over West Michigan. https://t.co/HwfZCjBAbO
— Kurt Steiner (@Kurt_Steiner) February 8, 2026
Located 15 minutes from Traverse City, this Laker alum and his family are celebrating their 10th season at Rove Winery this summer! 🍷🍇 Read about Creighton Gallagher ’06 and his journey to the vineyard here: https://t.co/lJ0eYlL7z7 pic.twitter.com/iAXWXRuglO
— Grand Valley State (@GVSU) August 6, 2025
“Tyme” was used in Middle English and earlier forms of the language, and it was commonly found in historical texts, poetry, and manuscripts of that time. It was used to refer to the passage of time, an era, or a specific moment in history.
Today at 16:00 UTC we refresh our understanding of the technical standards for the timing-systems that maintain the temporal framework for daily life in education communities. The campus clock continues as a monument of beauty and structure even though digitization of everything has rendered the central community clock redundant.
Most leading practice discovery (and innovation) is happening with the Network Time Protocols (NTP) that synchronize the time stamps of widely separated data centers. In operation since before 1985, NTP is one of the oldest Internet protocols in current use and underlies the Internet of Things build out. NTP is particularly important in maintaining accurate time stamps for safety system coordination and for time stamps on email log messages.
Use the login credentials at the upper right of our home page.
That extra hour of sleep comes with a catch. ⏰
As we turn our clocks back on Sunday, IU School of Medicine’s Stephanie M. Stahl, MD, explains how the time change affects our sleep, health and internal body clocks, plus tips to help your body adjust.
🔗 Learn more about navigating the time change here: https://t.co/FqqmvOdevM
— Indiana University (@IndianaUniv) October 31, 2026
More
National Institute of Standards and Technology: What is Time?
Sapienza University of Rome: Clock Synchronization
National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
Athletics
Map showing what states can actually drive in snow pic.twitter.com/qgKEhLtKbr
— Midwest vs. Everybody (@midwestern_ope) February 7, 2025
Starting from the canonicals of any standard suitable for optimizing innovation (and incorporation by reference into public law) — Title, Scope, Purpose and Definitions — we will turn our attention to the Call for Public Comment by NIST which is open until July 28th.
Artificial intelligence is built upon language, but the meaning of “standard language” becomes complicated when machines learn from billions of human expressions. Unlike electrical, building or safety standards, language standards are rarely governed by a single authority. Dictionaries, style manuals, universities, publishers, governments and professional societies establish conventions, while ordinary speakers continuously modify them. AI systems operate in the middle of this tension between prescription and usage.
Training data. Large language models learn statistical patterns from books, websites, journalism, academic literature, software and other sources. The composition of that material influences what the model recognizes as normal, authoritative or acceptable language. Decisions about inclusion, exclusion and weighting can therefore function as de facto standards, even when no formal standards organization is involved.
Grammar and intelligibility. AI can reinforce conventional spelling, syntax and technical terminology, making communication across institutions and borders easier. This is particularly valuable in engineering, medicine, law and education, where small differences in terminology can have substantial consequences. Yet excessive normalization may flatten dialect, regional vocabulary and inherited forms of expression.
Meaning. Words change over time and contested words often carry political, cultural or institutional assumptions. When an AI system chooses one definition over another, it may unintentionally appear to settle a dispute that society itself has not settled. Transparency about ambiguity is therefore an important characteristic of trustworthy AI.
Tchnical standardization. AI increasingly depends upon formal vocabularies, ontologies, metadata, machine-readable definitions and interoperability protocols. Standards organizations such as International Organization for Standardization, IEEE and National Institute of Standards and Technology have roles in developing frameworks through which AI systems can be evaluated and governed.
Above all we still face the question: Who gets to set the language standard? Should AI reflect contemporary majority usage, established literary traditions, professional terminology, institutional style or the language of particular communities? Probably some combination is unavoidable.
For Standards Michigan, the deeper question may be this: AI does not merely follow language standards; through widespread daily use, it may increasingly help create them. If millions of students, teachers, engineers and institutions rely upon AI to write and interpret language, the model’s linguistic choices can become conventions themselves. Understanding how those choices are made may therefore become as important as understanding the standards written by traditional standards-setting bodies.
November 2026 Update
S. 542 remains pending in the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. Executive Order 14224 and subsequent Department of Justice guidance have meanwhile advanced federal English-language policy administratively. Neither measure resolves the separate challenge of maintaining precise, consistent technical English across engineering standards, legislation, scientific literature and AI-generated documents.

Hanging Gardens of Babylon | National Geographic
Related:
The White House: Designating English as the Official Language of The United States
H.R. 9742 (IH) – English Language Proficiency Act
Standardize: Aligning Language Models with Expert-Defined Standards for Content Generation
The language of the Internet is shaped by large language models, international standards, and software platforms developed by people from many linguistic backgrounds. The challenge is not that many contributors are non-native English speakers — and that is a serious cultural problem — the challenge is ensuring that, despite the differences in how English is taught, understood and used — technical English remains precise, stable, and consistently interpreted.
Ambiguous wording, subtle shifts in meaning, or differing cultural assumptions can introduce confusion into engineering, law, medicine, and public policy when replicated at Internet scale. The remedy is not linguistic exclusivity but stronger standards: carefully defined vocabularies, consensus terminology, authoritative style guides, and rigorous editorial review by diverse experts.
English has become the principal working language of science, engineering, and commerce because it supports a vast body of technical literature and international collaboration. Preserving its precision is therefore a matter of stewardship. As AI systems increasingly generate and interpret technical information, maintaining a common, standards-based engineering English will become as important as maintaining reliable communication networks themselves.
Halloween celebrates the imagination and exuberance of the young. All Saints’ Day remembers those whose lives and labors made their world possible. Between these two observances lies much of the purpose of an educational settlement: to provide beautiful, safe and enduring places where young people may form friendships, fall in love, raise families and eventually leave something of value to generations they will never know.
New update alert! The 2022 update to the Trademark Assignment Dataset is now available online. Find 1.29 million trademark assignments, involving 2.28 million unique trademark properties issued by the USPTO between March 1952 and January 2023: https://t.co/njrDAbSpwB pic.twitter.com/GkAXrHoQ9T
— USPTO (@uspto) July 13, 2023
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