Prioritization of k-12 school maintenance construction projects using genetic algorithm and dynamic programming models

Abstract

High quality education standards and safe learning environments are the fundamental goals of most educational systems. One step towards achieving these goals is to keep existing school facilities in good working conditions through continues repair and maintenance programs. Due to limited resources, efficient use of allocated funds is necessary. This paper presents an optimization tool using Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Dynamic Programming (DP) that manages the expenses of K-12 school rehabilitation projects. These models help to find the optimum solutions among the given data through mutations and crossover in deriving a possible solution to a multi-layered problem. The proposed optimization tools maximize the benefits of K-12 school repair projects, and focus primarily on serving at-risk students, including those who come from low-income families. To demonstrate the use and capabilities of the proposed tool, a case study is presented. The results revealed by the case study show high potential for better management of school rehabilitation projects and better provision of service to disadvantaged students.