Originally built in 1995, Vista Ridge High School had reached its capacity and needed a strategic expansion to align with Falcon School District 49’s vision for future-ready education. Recognizing the growing demand for hands-on, career-focused learning, the district sought to expand its Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs and to create modern spaces where students could engage in real-world experiences that prepare them for tomorrow’s workforce.

Nunn Construction delivered a two-story classroom addition designed to house state-of-the-art CTE learning environments. The expansion added 18 new classrooms supporting high-demand programs such as engineering and fabrication, broadcast journalism, medical certifications, business and family consumer sciences, and cybersecurity and drone piloting. Each space was purpose-built to foster certification programs, internships, and career pathway experiences to aid students to bridge the gap between high school and professional readiness.

During preconstruction, Nunn led a rigorous value engineering process that resulted in substantial cost savings for the district. The original foundation design, drilled piers up to 5-feet in diameter, was re-engineered into a shallow foundation system with 12-foot over-excavation, saving approximately $1 million while maintaining structural integrity.

Architectural cohesion was a key priority. The team meticulously matched the colors, textures, and finishes of the existing 1995 building, coordinating extensively with Hollis + Miller Architects and District 49 to ensure seamless integration. The cost savings achieved allowed the project to incorporate additional enhancements, including temporary parking and upgraded landscaping.

Now complete, the Vista Ridge High School CTE Addition stands as a transformative educational asset for Falcon School District 49. The facility not only expands capacity by 450 students but also empowers them to earn industry-recognized certifications before graduation. This forward-looking investment supports the district’s mission of fostering student success through real-world readiness, educational innovation, and community growth.

•  State-of-the-Art CTE Learning Environments
•  Cost-Saving Foundation Redesign
•  Architectural Continuity with Existing Campus