Over the past twenty years there has been a major shift in the societal culture of America which

has
presented many challenges for children, families and the public school system. Being able to adapt to
these challenges have not been easy. If future schools are going to keep pace with these changes, then
they will have to provide its students with a variety of services which enhance their educational
opportunities, while also developing and strengthening their physical, emotional, social and moral
competency. One approach to this problem could be a more integrated community based schooling.

This thesis will examine this concept of how the public school system will operate when more accessible
community features are integrated within the design. The generator for this prototype will be a new
design of Wilmington High School which serves ninth through twelfth grade students. This program will
support a variety of activities for multiple age groups, helping to build a center piece for community life.
A community based approach will enable this age group to become leaders in the community and
further strengthen their capabilities to function successfully outside of the educational environment.