It is nearly impossible for one individual or a small committee to understand the complex needs of an entire school system and its community. Only by partnering with local business and community leaders, parents, teachers and third-party experts can local boards of education and school administrators grasp the unique needs of their community. Only then can educational facilities be developed or renovated to meet these needs. While collecting and organizing feedback from various stakeholders may seem insurmountable, many schools are finding it to be a worthwhile investment. When approached properly, community partnerships can result in schools that are designed to prepare students to meet the unique needs of their communities. Students obtain valuable knowledge to prepare for the future, and at the same time the community gains access to an eager and experienced talent pool right out of school. This article describes how with community support, a good design team and a goal to improve students' outcomes, school systems are improving their facilities to meet the demands of the 21st century workplace.