Traditionally, community involvement in K-12 education design was minimal, resulting in numerous outdated schools that struggled to meet modern educational needs. Research now shows that engaging stakeholders—such as parents, educators, local business owners, community leaders, residents and students—during the design process is the key to creating educational environments that better serve the needs of both students and the community.
As technological advancements and sustainable elements become increasingly vital, it is imperative that we begin involving the community in designing K-12 schools.
Through effective community engagement, CPL’s K-12 Education Practice team has helped districts like Spackenkill Union Free School District and Monticello Central School District to shape projects that not only fulfill educational requirements but also reflect the aspirations and values of the communities they serve. This collaborative approach has yielded modern, flexible learning environments that:
- Enhance student attendance and engagement
- Improve academic performance in subjects like math and reading
- Foster better student behavior and well-being
- Create a strong sense of community ownership and support
