FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 18, 2025 MEDIA INVITE: 2025 Rocky Mountain 5K Presented By District 11 - 08/18/25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 11, 2025 Major Renovations Wrap As Jenkins Middle School Opens For 2025-26 School Year - 08/11/25

Major Renovations Wrap as Jenkins Middle School Opens for 2025-26 School Year

The Colorado Springs School District 11 celebrates completion of the initial phase of work with Bryan Construction, CRP Architects and local and state jurisdictions

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The Colorado Springs School District 11 is proud to welcome students back to Jenkins Middle School following major renovations that prioritize student safety, enhanced learning environments and long-term investment in educational infrastructure.

The work, completed in collaboration with Bryan Construction, CRP Architects and with oversight from the Colorado State Fire Inspectors, Colorado Springs Fire Department and Pikes Peak Regional Building Department, fulfills the vision 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. We’re grateful to our partners, our staff and our families for helping bring this vision to life, and we’re excited to see students learning and growing in these next-generation 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. This experience demonstrates what can be achieved when the community unites around a mission focused on the education of our next generation."

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.

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.

“As fire marshal, 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, August 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.” 

About Colorado Springs District 11

The Colorado Springs School District 11 is reshaping public education by focusing on excellence, choice, and engagement to drive student achievement. With a PreK-14 model, including the county’s largest number of preschool sites and the D11 Promise scholarship, the district ensures access to high-quality education for all students. D11 values parents’ right to choose the best educational path, offering a range of options from traditional schools to innovation zones and online platforms. Through strong community partnerships, the district provides students with expanded opportunities and a commitment to finding excellence through experience.

About Bryan Construction

Bryan Construction is a 100% employee-owned general contractor specializing in the education sector, alongside our extensive experience in commercial, federal and multifamily markets. With offices across Colorado, we operate nationally and internationally, delivering expertise in a variety of construction projects, including educational facilities, affordable housing, health care, mission-critical facilities and renovations of all sizes. Quality and innovation drive our success in meeting the diverse needs of our clients. 

About CRP Architects

Founded in 1979 and based in Colorado Springs, CRP Architects designs innovative facilities that reflect the values of the communities they serve. With expertise in education, health and wellness, municipal and faith-based projects, the firm has completed more than 450 projects across Colorado. Guided by its mission of “Building Community,” CRP delivers thoughtful design and lasting client partnerships.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Colorado Springs, Colorado August 11, 2025:= Doherty High School Cross Country Team Hosting Benefit 5k Run/Walk For The Never Alone Foundation - 08/11/25

The Doherty High School Athletic Department will host the 14th annual Doherty Never Alone Foundation 5K Benefit Run in conjunction with a high school cross country scrimmage on Saturday, August 16, at Monument Valley Park North, located at Culebra and Fontanero.

The event kicks off with a high school cross country scrimmage featuring several local teams at 7:30 a.m., followed by the Never Alone Foundation 5K benefit run at 8:05 a.m. The event is sponsored by Doherty Athletics and the Doherty Cross Country team.

Fourteen years ago, in July 2011, the Colorado Springs and Doherty communities experienced a profound tragedy. Dr. Alex Constantinides, a local family physician and Doherty’s athletic team doctor, lost his wife and three children in a flash flood in Wyoming. The heartbreak rippled through the community, and the Doherty family came together to heal.

Dr. Alex and his wife had adopted their three children and were deeply committed to their community and to supporting orphaned children. To honor the memory and legacy of the Constantinides family, the Never Alone Foundation was established in 2012. The foundation supports international adoption by providing grants to bridge financial gaps for adoptive families.

The Doherty 5K benefit run was created as a tribute to this legacy. Over the past 11 benefit runs, more than $45,000 has been raised in the Constantinides family’s name. With this year marking the 14th benefit run, organizers hope to surpass $55,000 in total funds raised.

Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to join this family- and stroller-friendly event. Both pre-registration and race-day registration cost $40, and all registered participants will receive a race t-shirt. Registration is available online or in person at the Doherty High School Business Office, open 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Event Website:
https://co.milesplit.com/meets/691389-doherty-high-school-scrimmage-and-never-alone-foundation-5k-at-mvp-2025

Public Fundraiser Race Registration:
https://www.active.com/colorado-springs-co/running/distance-running-races/doherty-high-school-never-alone-foundation-5k-2025

The Doherty athletic department continues to embrace this event, both through donations to the Never Alone Foundation and enthusiastic participation. Each Doherty athletic team and many student 

clubs compete in the 5K for the coveted Doherty Spirit Stick—and the bragging rights that come with it.

Event Details:

Location: Monument Valley Park North, Colorado Springs
Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
Time: 8:05 a.m. (Benefit Run Start)

MEDIA INVITED: See What’s New - And What’s Next - At Jenkins Middle School - 08/08/25

THE Colorado Springs School District 11 invites members of the media to get an inside look at the ongoing renovations at Jenkins Middle School on Monday, August 11, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.

Learning spaces—including the 6th-grade wing, gymnasium, and class cubes—are complete and ready to welcome students. Major work continues, with an entirely new wing of next-generation learning spaces set to take shape during the school year. This behind-the-scenes tour will highlight the progress so far, showcase finished areas, and offer a preview of what’s still to come.

District leaders and project partners will be on hand to walk media through the upgrades, discuss the vision behind the improvements, and share how construction is being managed while school is in session.

WHO:

• District 11 leadership

• Jenkins Middle School Principal

• Members of the D11 Board of Education

• Project architects and contractors

WHAT:

Media tour of Jenkins Middle School — progress update and ongoing renovations

WHEN:

Monday, August 11, 2025
7:00 p.m.

WHERE:

Jenkins Middle School
6410 Austin Bluffs Parkway
Colorado Springs, CO 80923

WHY:
To provide the community with an update on the Jenkins Middle School renovation project, celebrate milestones achieved, and share the vision for spaces still under construction.

Colorado Springs School District 11 Partners With EduKit To Provide School Supply Kits To More Than 14,000 Students - 08/07/25

Community partnership supports D11 families with customized school supply kits

COLORADO SPRINGS (Aug. 7, 2025) — As back-to-school costs rise nationwide, Colorado Springs School District 11 continues its commitment to removing barriers to learning by covering the cost of school supplies for its K–8 students. This year, through a partnership with EduKit, a Colorado Springs-based school supply kit provider, more than 14,000 students across the district’s 46 elementary and middle schools will receive customized, grade-specific supply kits at no cost to families—delivered in time for the first day of class.

Each kit includes essential classroom items such as notebooks, pencils, folders, and more— helping ensure students arrive prepared while easing the time and cost pressures on families and teachers.

What makes this year’s partnership especially meaningful: many kits are being packed locally by D11 high school students working as part of EduKit’s seasonal team. Founded in Colorado Springs and now part of School Family Media, EduKit continues to house its warehouse operations locally and employs D11 students, parents, and graduates–seasonally and year-round– supporting local families and strengthening community ties.

“We’re proud to support District 11 families with kits prepared by their own community, and are thankful for the opportunity to do so,” said Charles Field, CEO of School Family Media. “In addition to D11, EduKit partners with schools in other districts throughout the Colorado Springs area to ensure students start the year equipped and ready to succeed. While we’ve served thousands of schools across the U.S., it is especially meaningful to work with schools right here in our own backyard.”

With nationwide back-to-school spending expected to top $41 billion, these kits offer relief to many families. While some may still buy a few extra items, the kits cover the majority of students’ needs.

“Every student deserves to start the year feeling supported and ready to learn,” said Sherry Kalbach, Area Superintendent at District 11. “By covering supply costs, we’re removing barriers for families and helping keep the focus where it belongs—on learning. We’re grateful for our partnership with EduKit and especially excited that D11 high schoolers helped assemble the kits for their younger peers.”

The school supply kits will be delivered to all D11 elementary and middle schools before the first day of school in August.

About EduKit

For more than 30 years, EduKit has made back-to-school shopping easier for families and schools across the country. By delivering pre-packaged school supply kits tailored to teachers’ exact lists, EduKit ensures students are classroom-ready from on the first day of school. Known for quality, convenience, and outstanding customer satisfaction, EduKit is the trusted choice for thousands of schools and families year after year. School Family Media is changing how schools and families prepare for back-to-school. Our nationally recognized platforms, TeacherLists, EduKit, and PTO Today, simplify back-to-school for schools, teachers, volunteers, and especially parents. As a mission-driven company, our goal is to make life easier for school communities and help ensure students are prepared to learn.

About Colorado Springs School District 11

The Colorado Springs School District 11 is reshaping public education by focusing on excellence, choice, and engagement to drive student achievement. With a PreK-14 model, including the county’s largest number of preschool sites and the D11 Promise scholarship, the district ensures access to high-quality education for all students. D11 values parents’ right to choose the best educational path, offering a range of options from traditional schools to innovation zones and online platforms. Through strong community partnerships, the district provides students with expanded opportunities and a commitment to finding excellence through experience.

Wild About Columbia! Big Reveal Blooms At Back-to-School Night - 08/06/25

Colorado Springs, CO — Something beautiful is blooming at Columbia Elementary School l(835 E. St. Vrain St. Colorado Springs, CO 80903), and you're invited to witness it firsthand! Join us on Friday, August 8, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM for an unforgettable Back-to-School Night filled with fun, connection, and a BIG reveal you won’t want to miss.

Just like wildflowers that bloom with vibrant energy and spirit, our Columbia community is thriving—and this special unveiling celebrates the growth, creativity, and heart that make our school so unique.

What to Expect:

• A joyful gathering of families, staff, and community

• Fun for all ages

• A colorful surprise that will leave you inspired

Let’s kick off the school year in full bloom—mark your calendar, bring your wildflower spirit, and come be part of the magic.

We can’t wait to see you there!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - 08/06/25

At its regular meeting on August 6, 2025, the Colorado Springs School District 11 Board of Education will formally accept the resignation of Director Lauren Nelson. Director Nelson recently assumed a new role as El Paso County Commissioner for District 5 and cited the demands and scheduling conflicts of the position as the reason for stepping down from the Board.

Call for Community Members Interested in Serving on the Board

The District 11 Board of Education will appoint a new member to fill the vacant seat. Community members interested in serving in this important role are encouraged to review the information below and attend an upcoming orientation session:

Orientation Session

• Date: Wednesday, August 13, 2025
• Time: 4:00 pm
• Location: Board Room, D11 Administration Office, 1115 N. El Paso Street

Legal Qualifications

All candidates must submit a signed affidavit confirming that they:

• Have been a registered elector residing within District 11 boundaries for at least 12 consecutive months prior to the appointment date;
• Have not been convicted of a sexual offense against a child;
• Have not been convicted of a felony; and
• Have not served two consecutive terms on the District 11 Board ending within the last four years.

Timeline

• August 7: Application materials available on the District 11 website
• August 13, 4:00 pm: Orientation Meeting at the D11 Administration Building

• August 14, by 5:00 pm: Deadline to Submit Materials
  • Completed application
  • Resume
  • Signed affidavit confirming qualifications
• August 20, 4:00 pm: Board Work Session – Candidate interviews and discussion
• August 27, 4:00 pm: Special Board Meeting – Appointment decision

Submit all materials to:

Melisa Olsen, Board of Education Specialist

Colorado Springs School District 11 Administration Office

1115 N. El Paso Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Appointment Requirements

The candidate, if appointed, must take the Oath of Office within ten days of appointment and sign the confidentiality affidavit. The appointee will serve until the newly elected director takes the oath of office at the organizational meeting following the November 4, 2025, regular biennial school election.

MEDIA INVITE: D11’s “Supplies For Success” Returns — Bigger, Better, And More Impactful Than Ever - 08/05/25

Colorado Springs, CO — Colorado Springs School District 11 is thrilled to welcome back its Supplies for Success event! Supplies for Success is an opportunity for educators to stock up on classroom items that go beyond the basics and bring learning to life. Media are invited to attend, capture the excitement, and hear directly from teachers about how this event helps set the tone for a great school year.

What It Is:
Each year, D11 provides every teacher with the essentials—pencils, paper, crayons—through school budgets. But Supplies for Success is about the extras: bulletin board décor, flexible seating, fidget tools, organizational supplies, and other items that make classrooms more engaging and student-centered.

“We want to ensure that teachers start the year with not only what they need, but what inspires,” said Dr. Carole Frye, D11 Chief of Instruction. “This is about respect for our educators and belief in what’s possible when classrooms are joyful and well-equipped.”

What’s New This Year?
The event has been redesigned based on feedback from over 400 teachers:

• More than 170 types of supplies available—FREE for every D11 teacher

• Organized time slots by geographic area for a smoother experience

• Separate rooms for elementary and secondary educators

• Large reusable bags provided—no wagons required!

Event Details:
Tesla Professional Development Center
2560 International Circle, Colorado Springs, CO 80910
Parking: Stargazers Theatre (District transportation will shuttle staff to Tesla)

Schedule by Region:
Thursday, August 7

• 8:30–11:00 AM: Northeast Area Teachers

• 12:30–3:00 PM: Southeast Area Teachers

Friday, August 8

• 8:30–11:00 AM: Central Area Teachers

• 12:30–3:00 PM: West Area Teachers

More Than Just Supplies:
This event is also a celebration—complete with sweet treats and camaraderie, and big thanks to our incredible sponsors:

Raising Cane’s: Free lemonade, iced tea, teacher gift bags, and gift cards
Atomic Cowboy (Denver Biscuit Co & Fat Sully’s): Savory snacks at every session
Josh & John’s Scoop Truck: Free scoops served outside Tesla
The Foundation for D11: Providing generous monetary support to help make it all possible

Media Coverage Opportunities:
Journalists will have access to:

• Interview opportunities with teachers and event organizers

• Photo and video moments as teachers “shop” the space

• A behind-the-scenes look at how community support is making a difference in local classrooms

Let’s kick off the school year with everything our teachers need—and everything they deserve. We can’t wait to see you at Supplies for Success 2025!

Colorado Springs School Of Technology To Host Open House And Ribbon Cutting Ceremony - 08/01/25

Colorado Springs, CO — The Colorado Springs School of Technology (CSST), District 11’s new STEM Innovation High School, is proud to announce its official Open House and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Friday, August 8th at 10:30 AM, located at 3650 N. Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80907.

This milestone event will celebrate the launch of a school designed to prepare the next generation of leaders, builders, and innovators through hands-on, real-world learning experiences. The community is invited to tour the campus, meet the team, and explore the school's four specialized career pathways: Aerospace, Cybersecurity, Entrepreneurship, and Leadership.

“CSST was built to rethink what high school can be,” said Nathan Gorsch. “We’re giving students the chance to dive into meaningful work, connect with industry mentors, and graduate with a plan.” 

The event will feature:

• A formal ribbon-cutting ceremony with District and community leaders.
• An Open House to tour CSST’s state-of-the-art learning spaces.
• Opportunities to meet CSST faculty and leadership.

This event is open to the public, students, parents, partners, and press.

About CSST

The Colorado Springs School of Technology is a tuition-free public high school within District 11 that provides a project-based, future-focused education model. Students engage in career-connected learning while earning a high school diploma and gaining skills aligned with the real world.

For media inquiries or to RSVP, please contact info@csrockets.org or visit www.csrockets.org.