Later in the day, the round tables might be rearranged for a performance on the Commons stage that backs up to two music rooms. In the evenings, the room provides a popular meeting place for parents and community groups, and can be closed off from the classroom wings to ensure security. Windows from the Commons frame a view of the gymnasium on the floor below. It's big enough to hold two PE classes at once during the day and recreational basketball leagues or fitness classes at night. This school probably has more flexible meeting places than any other school in the district, and they're all busy, all the time.
Nothing sits idle here.
But she isn't complaining. Any time you can bring the community into your school, you'll benefit. Community members won't realize the value of their schools unless they see for themselves how their buildings are used, how wisely money is spent, and the quality that comes back to the whole community when people support their schools. Discovery's open-door policy started back in the planning stage, with widespread involvement of the public. That involvement not only led to a better design, but also has helped to build community ownership of the school.