Photo: The project included addressing structural needs as well as improving the campus layout and instructional spaces. | Photo Credit: Bryan Construction
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The Colorado Springs School District 11 recently welcomed students back to Jenkins Middle School following major renovations that prioritized student safety, enhanced learning environments and long-term investment in educational infrastructure.
The work was completed in collaboration with Bryan Construction and CRP Architects and with oversight from the Colorado State Fire Inspectors, Colorado Springs Fire Department and Pikes Peak Regional Building Department to create a safe, functional and inspiring place to learn.
“The transformation of Jenkins Middle School reflects our unwavering commitment to providing safe, inspiring spaces where students can thrive,” said Michael Gaal, Superintendent of The Colorado Springs School District 11. “This project is more than bricks and mortar — it’s an investment in our students’ futures, our educators’ success and the community we serve.”
The project included addressing structural needs as well as improving the campus layout and instructional spaces. Key components of the project include:
- Installation of new modular classrooms, known as “Class Cubes,” fully equipped with furniture and technology for immediate use
- Upgrades to the main corridor and other high-traffic areas
- A refreshed and re-equipped sixth grade wing, ready for the incoming class
- Progress on the Media Center, including new structural foundations (micropiles)
- Demolition of the seventh and eighth grade wings, preparing the site for future next generation learning spaces
“We are honored to contribute to a project that positively impacts the students, staff and community of Jenkins Middle School,” said Doug Woody, Vice President of Bryan Construction. “We take pride in our ability to respond effectively during emergencies and to reopen the school before the 2025-26 academic year. The successful coordination, communication and relationships with District 11 and all relevant governmental jurisdictions were crucial to this expedited timeline.”
To maintain safety during construction, the district implemented new traffic and parking patterns, ensuring no vehicles cross in front of the Class Cubes. The Colorado Springs Fire Department was instrumental in working with District 11 and Jenkins Middle School staff to ensure safety for all students, staff and visitors.
“My team and I are responsible for protecting students from fire hazards,” said Fire Marshal Kris Cooper. “Due to identified impairments to structural and fire protection features, CSFD, in cooperation with Pikes Peak Regional Building Department and the state of Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control, made the decision to evacuate the school in January of this year. I’m pleased to announce that, as of Friday, Aug. 9, Jenkins Middle School is approved for reoccupation. The necessary improvements have been made, ensuring the occupiable portions of the building are now safe for students and staff.”
The bulk of the renovation is complete and ready for students, with some areas, such as final plumbing installation and structural slab work in the Media Center, to continue behind secure construction zones. Portable classrooms are in place temporarily and will be phased out as permanent facilities are completed.
“This project is about more than repairs — it’s about giving Jenkins students a fresh start,” said Brian Risley, Principal Architect of CRP Architects. “From vibrant new finishes in the classroom wing to a safer, more functional layout, every detail was designed to welcome students back after a year away. Even as demolition and preparation for the new addition continue, careful separation of construction areas ensures learning can happen safely in an environment full of new energy and possibility.”