In November 2024, Aurora voters approved historic support by approving ballot measures 5A and 5B, paving the way for the largest bond initiative in Colorado’s history and signaling the public’s deep community commitment towards public education. Among the investments is the complete replacement of Laredo Elementary School, whose 1967-era building no longer met modern educational or operational needs.
With a target construction cost of $38 million, the new facility is designed to support contemporary learning environments, advanced technology, and long-term sustainability while honoring the legacy of the original school. Groundbreaking is planned for February 2027. The existing school will remain operational throughout the 18‑month construction period, and the new building is slated to open for the fall 2028 semester, followed by demolition of the old facility and final sitework in spring 2029.
LOCATION:
Aurora, CO
CLIENT:
Aurora Public Schools
SCOPE:
87,000 SF Replacement School
COST:
Estimated $38.5 Million
COMPLETED:
Estimated 2028
The conceptual design—shaped by a diverse Design Advisory Group of educators, district leaders, and community members—centers on the theme of a “Mosaic,” inspired by a student‑created artwork that symbolizes Laredo’s rich cultural diversity. This guiding idea informs the architecture and the organization of the building, emphasizing belonging, daylight-filled learning spaces, and a clear distinction between the quieter classroom wing and the more public community and specials wing. Small gathering areas for each grade level, a welcoming media center at the heart of the school, and an exterior that reflects the character of the Laredo neighborhood all reinforce the project’s commitment to connection and identity.
