(COLORADO SPRINGS) — According to Colorado Springs School District 11 (D11), incoming sixth graders could return to Jenkins Middle School as early as August 2025, though seventh and eighth graders may have to wait a bit longer as construction continues.
D11 Superintendent Michael Gaal sent an update to families on March 5, thanking students and staff for their patience while the building is repaired and renovated. Superintendent Gaal said as of this update, the plan is to begin reoccupying Jenkins Middle School as early as the fall semester, with sixth graders the first to return.
Gaal said the district is still working with its construction team to determine whether seventh and eighth graders will also return for the 2025-2026 school year.
“Our priority is to maximize in-building learning for as many students as possible while ensuring safety and a seamless transition,” Gaal said in the update.
Gaal said construction on the gym and media center are slated to begin soon, while more substantial work on the seventh and eighth grade wing will require additional planning and design. The district hopes to have an update for families of seventh and eighth grade students before spring break, including:
Findings from a geotechnical survey
An updated construction timeline
Options for the 2025-2026 school year for seventh and eighth grade
The district said the final geotechnical report will be made available publicly no later than March 10.
In preparation for new sixth graders starting their journey in middle school, the district said administrators would be visiting Scott, Martinez, and Freedom elementary schools between March 11 and 20 to meet with fifth grade students and answer questions they may have about becoming a Jenkins Jaguar.
“We understand that change brings uncertainty, but please know that the well-being and success of our students remains our top priority,” Gaal said. “No matter where we are, our focus is on preserving the unique spirit and sense of community that define Jenkins Middle School.”
