This presentation describes the development of an Icelandic school for students in grades 1-10. The school is based on the needs of students, their families, their communities, and their country. The process for making decisions about the new schools is called "design down," which refers to starting with the biggest issues and moving toward smaller goals. The physical space is intended to support all elements of school organization. Decisions are made collaboratively by school and community stakeholders. The school planning process involves linking mission, vision, values, and logo into a highly meaningful signature for the school. The planning team considers four concepts high priority: community, nature, spirit/well-being, and flow. Learning expectations include working cooperatively, understanding diversity, seeking knowledge, communicating effectively, expecting success from all students, and experiencing success on national and local exams. The learning process includes aligning with the learning context, audience, signature, and expectations; integrating learners of different ages; using technology; building student self-esteem; engaging learners in inquiry; and motivating students. Other parts of the process include the school site, landscape, historic precedents, the design concept (which integrates the patterns of the landscape and the school), and freedom and creativity. (SM)