The central setting for this anthology is Robert E. Lee High School in Deerfield, Texas. Thomas introduced this setting in his novel Slave Day, and several of the anthology's major and minor characters first appeared in that book. This school is a base for students to depart from and return to as they fulfill their assignments. Action at the school is limited primarily to "Extension Four" because the story involves the interaction of its main volunteer, Jill Stephenson, with students in her school community.

"The Laser" also incorporates school locations and stresses the professional importance of Robert E. Lee High School to its administrators and employees. The college auditorium, where Randall muses about the validity and sincerity of community service, represents the goal of many of the high school students who view community service as a valuable addition to their resumes to earn admission to prestigious colleges. These...