JHL Constructors (JHL), in partnership with St. Vrain Valley Schools (SVVSD) and architecture firm Cuningham, celebrated the ribbon-cutting of Big Sky PK-8 on August 10 in Longmont. The milestone marked the completion of the new 145,000-square-foot school ahead of welcoming students for the first day of school on August 18.
The celebration featured a unique display by students from the Innovation Center of St. Vrain Valley Schools, who commemorated the occasion with a student-led drone show.
As general contractor, JHL worked alongside SVVSD and architect Cuningham to deliver a two-story learning environment designed around collaboration, adaptability, and exploration. The project continues a 10-year partnership between JHL and St. Vrain Valley Schools and reflects JHL’s commitment to Building Colorado’s Future through educational facilities that will serve students and communities for generations.
“After 10 years of working alongside St. Vrain Valley Schools, it’s incredibly rewarding to see another school come to life,” said Liza Padgett, assistant project manager at JHL. “Big Sky PK-8 is more than a new building—it’s a place that will have a lasting impact on students, educators, and families throughout the St. Vrain Valley community. We’re proud to have played a role in bringing that vision to life.”
Designed by Cuningham, Big Sky PK-8 features flexible learning spaces that can be reconfigured to support different learning styles and projects, along with specialized labs that bookend the main commons and put student learning on display. A heavy timber structure, brick and metal panel exterior, and dynamic sawtooth roof inspired by the surrounding mountain range establish a distinct architectural identity. Daylighting and views—including prominent views toward Longs Peak—further connect learning spaces to the surrounding Colorado landscape.
Sustainability features include energy-efficient building systems, strategic daylighting, advanced stormwater management, and infrastructure that allows for future solar panels. The campus also features an all-weather track, football field, and outdoor classrooms.
“Big Sky PK-8 is a great example of what can be accomplished through a truly collaborative project team,” said Conan Smith, Construction Project Manager at St. Vrain Valley Schools. “The partnership between SVVSD, JHL, Cuningham, and our many project partners helped turn the district’s vision into a learning environment that will serve our students and community well into the future.”Located on district-owned property alongside the existing high school campus, Big Sky PK-8 creates a cohesive educational campus and community hub while expanding learning opportunities for the St. Vrain Valley community.
