Delivering on a promise made to voters during the 2024 bond election, Westminster Public Schools (WPS) is proud to announce plans for a groundbreaking new PK–8 campus set to open in the fall of 2028. The $40 million project will unite John E. Flynn A Marzano Academy with Shaw Heights Middle School, creating a vibrant, CTE-STEM Campus where innovation and opportunity will thrive.

During the construction process, scheduled to begin next year, all students and staff from Flynn will join Shaw Heights students in the Shaw building which has already undergone extensive renovation and has room for additional students and programs. Flynn, a PK-8 Innovation school, was the first school in the nation to receive High Reliability School Certification from Marzano Resources. Fifth-grade students from nearby Harris Park Elementary and Mesa Elementary will also attend the new campus. 

 “This is a really exciting project for our community, a game-changer for our students as we prepare them for the future,” said Superintendent Jeni Gotto. “Families have consistently told us that they prefer a PK-8 model, and because of the proximity of these two buildings, we can build one unified campus that offers state-of-the-art facilities and expanded programming to meet the needs of every student.”

Over the next two years, the Flynn building will undergo a complete transformation. The reconstruction will include:

• State-of-the-art, high-tech classrooms designed to foster collaboration and innovation.
• A regulation-size gymnasium to enhance athletics and physical education programs.
• A stunning outdoor learning complex that connects students to nature and real-world experiences.
• A new pedestrian pathway will link Flynn to the Shaw building.

On Monday, November 3, Gotto and district leaders met with the staff of both schools to share information about the plan. Later that evening, letters were sent to all affected families. The letters include a link to a new website that has architectural renderings of the new campus and a “Frequently Asked Questions” section.

While there are some details to be finalized, Gotto said it was important to get the word out as soon as possible so that the district can receive input from staff and families and be as transparent as possible. “Any time there is a change of this magnitude, there is a great deal of excitement and, for some, a certain amount of anxiety,” Gotto said. “We have a great plan in place to walk our families through this transition and I assured our staff that while the new campus may necessitate some personnel changes, everyone still has a home in Westminster Public Schools.”

Family Feedback meetings for parents from both schools have been scheduled for November and an Open House at Shaw Heights Middle School has been scheduled for January 15. The new website also provides a form for families to ask questions and share thoughts and comments. 

In December, the WPS Board of Education will approve a new name for the campus, clearing the way for the retirement of the Flynn and Shaw buildings. The district is planning several events to honor the culture and history of both schools and the website includes a section for current and former staff and students to provide memories, pictures and videos.

Click here to see a video clip