Construction and IT upgrades are in full swing across Adams 12 Five Star Schools as crews take advantage of the summer break to carry out a long list of improvements funded by the district’s $830 million bond, passed by voters in November 2024.
General construction began shortly after students and staff wrapped up the 2024-25 school year, with active work currently underway at eight campuses.
David Morgan, bond communications specialist for the district, said the projects remain on track for completion before the start of the next school year in August.
At Hunters Glen Elementary School in Thornton, crews have excavated the former playground and are preparing to install new, modern equipment that includes a rock climbing feature, a dedicated area for younger students and new striping on the blacktop.
A new gate system will make the space more accessible for students with disabilities, while also enhancing student safety and containment.
Meanwhile, Mountain Range High School is undergoing a complete mill and overlay of its parking lots.
Mountain Range Principal Tiffany Hansen said the project will positively impact the experience of every person who steps onto campus.
“While resurfacing projects may not carry the same excitement as new construction, they play a vital role in shaping first impressions and ensuring our campus remains welcoming to all,” Hansen said. “A well-maintained and inviting environment not only fosters school pride but also helps create safe spaces where learning and community can truly flourish.”
By late June, crews had completed about two-thirds of the work, including fresh pavement in two of the school’s three main lots. Workers are also installing two EV charging stations and rebuilding the curb lines in the faculty lot.
Project lead Tara Trujillo said weather delays early in the summer set the schedule back slightly, but crews remain confident they’ll finish major exterior work in July.
Overview of current projects
Construction and IT upgrades are happening simultaneously across Adams 12. Many schools are receiving both types of work this summer, with tech infrastructure improvements expected to carry into the 2025-26 school year.
General construction projects:
- Roof replacements at Century Middle School, Coyote Ridge Elementary School and Eagleview Elementary School
- Parking lot resurfacing at Horizon High School and Mountain Range High School
- Playground equipment replacements at Hunters Glen Elementary School and Leroy Elementary School
- Interior door renovation at Prairie Hills Elementary School
IT projects:
- Network cabling upgrades at 12 schools, including Horizon High, Prairie Hills Elementary, and Shadow Ridge Middle
- Intercom replacements at Legacy High School and Westlake Middle School
- Security camera improvements and general technology upgrades at all district schools
Morgan said the upgraded cabling will improve connectivity and reliability while preparing schools for future digital learning needs.
The work is also expected to improve cell service in buildings where reception has historically been weak. While some of the tech work will continue into the school year, Morgan said crews will complete installations outside of school hours to minimize disruptions to instruction.
Looking ahead
These projects represent the first round of bond-funded upgrades outlined in the district’s long-term capital plan. In the coming years, Adams 12 will launch additional construction phases, including:
- A complete rebuild of Thornton High School
- Renovation of the north side of the FutureForward Bollman campus
- Construction of a central kitchen and food warehouse to improve school meal variety and reduce distribution costs
Community members can track progress and view school-specific updates on the district’s bond program webpage.