Add as a preferred source on Google

Springfield Breaks Ground on $53.7M Pipkin Middle School Rebuild

  • By Matt Jones
  • 06/10/25

Construction is underway on a new, state-of-the-art Pipkin Middle School in Springfield, Mo., a major step in Springfield Public Schools’ (SPS) long-term facility improvement plan, according to local news. The $53.7-million project officially broke ground in early June, following years of planning and community input aimed at modernizing aging infrastructure and addressing student capacity concerns.

Located near the existing Pipkin site, the new 114,750-square-foot facility will accommodate up to 725 students and is designed with collaborative learning spaces, modern technology integration, and enhanced security features. The project replaces the current Pipkin building, originally constructed in 1925 and suffering from extensive wear and outdated systems.

The school’s construction is part of the voter-approved Proposition S, a $220-million bond measure passed in 2019. In total, the bond supports the replacement or renovation of several SPS facilities, with Pipkin’s rebuild among the largest. Superintendent Grenita Lathan noted the project's alignment with districtwide goals of improving educational equity and modernizing learning environments.

The new school, being built on property formerly used for district facilities and maintenance, is slated for completion by fall 2026. Crossland Construction is serving as general contractor, with design by Paragon Architecture, according to the Springfield Daily Citizen.

With groundbreaking complete, the focus now shifts to foundational work and vertical construction, which is expected to accelerate throughout the summer. The project represents a key investment in the future of Springfield’s educational infrastructure and reflects broader trends in middle school design that emphasize flexibility, student well-being, and safety.

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • University of Kansas Opens $400M Football Stadium Reconstruction

    The University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kan., recently announced that the $400-million reconstruction of David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium is complete in time for the 2025 football season, according to a news release. The university partnered with Turner Construction Company on the project.

  • South Texas K–12 District Debuts Region’s First Electric Bus Fleet

    The Valley View Independent School District in Pharr, Texas, recently announced a partnership with Highland Electric Fleets to launch the district’s—and the region’s—first fleet of all-electric school buses, according to a news release.

  • Beyond Four Walls

    Operable glass walls provide a dynamic solution for educational spaces. They align with today’s evolving teaching methods and adapt to the needs of modern learners. Beyond the functional versatility, movable glass walls offer clean, contemporary aesthetics, slim and unobtrusive profiles, and versatile configurations that cater to the evolving needs of students and educators alike.

  • Creating Long-Term Sustainability on College Campuses Through Fair Student Housing

    The quality of student housing can have a significant impact on an individual’s college experience. Today’s higher education institutions face mounting challenges, including declining enrollment, low retention rates between the first and second years, and a rise in student mental health concerns. Thoughtfully designed living spaces can help address these issues by creating environments that promote both academic focus and personal well-being.

Digital Edition