Mancos School District, located in the far southwest corner of Colorado was the recipient of a 2017 Colorado Department of Education, BEST Grant (Building Excellent Schools Today) to upgrade campus safety and security and modernize the District’s learning environments. The design team worked with District leadership, community members, students, and the General Contractor to deliver a revitalized campus that far exceeded the original project vision. As the largest construction project in the history of the town, Mancos was an economic catalyst for the community, and resulted in a significant increase in the District’s student population, and academic and athletic performance.

A primary goal of the project was the creation of highly sustainable buildings reinforcing 21st Century educational principles while providing a unified architectural language inspired by the rich history of Southwest Colorado. Nearly every facility on campus was able to be upgraded in some way as a result of the grant. The project scope included: additions and renovations to the Elementary cafeteria (pictured here), historic High School and Gymnasium, Middle School, and Performing Arts Center, as well as a new football and track facility, weight room, and playgrounds.