Ten years ago, the Montezuma-Cortez community envisioned something bold: a high school that would do more than educate—it would inspire. Today, that vision still stands proudly on a 30-acre site in Cortez, Colorado, framed by mountain vistas and filled with the energy of future-ready learners.
As Montezuma-Cortez High School (MCHS) celebrates its 10th anniversary, Nunn Construction is honored to look back on a project that continues to make a difference—one student, one teacher, and one milestone at a time.
Building the Future—On Time and On Budget
Delivered through the Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC) method, MCHS broke ground in December 2013 and opened its doors just 20 months later in July 2015. At 154,145 square feet and $36 million, it marked the first new high school built in the area in nearly 50 years. With strategic planning and four phased bid packages, Nunn ensured the project stayed on schedule and aligned with the budget from start to finish.
“It is obvious that the Nunn team is passionate about the construction process, and they made sure the result was up to our high standards… Now that we are in the warranty period, we are still getting the same helpful, prompt attention to our requests as we did at the start.”
— Dr. Alex Carter, Former Superintendent, Montezuma-Cortez RE-1 School District
Smart Design with a Sustainable Soul
Designed by Dekker, Perich, Sabatini Architects, the new MCHS was envisioned as a space where sustainability meets innovation. The facility earned LEED Gold Certification, thanks to geothermal mechanical systems for efficient heating and cooling, solar panels and a photovoltaic array reducing dependency on fossil fuels, LED lighting, low-flow plumbing, and xeriscaping to minimize water and energy use. 90% of construction waste recycled, including reclaimed concrete and repurposed wood and steel. Inside, generous natural light, flexible classrooms, and stunning views of nature support a learning environment that’s as inspiring as it is functional.
CTE Spaces That Change Lives
One of MCHS’s most groundbreaking features is its commitment to Career Technical Education (CTE). From day one, the design prioritized spaces that simulate real-world environments and give students a head start on meaningful careers.
Today, students explore hands-on training in Healthcare & Emergency Services, Fire Science & Military Prep, Culinary Arts & Agriculture, Construction Trades & Automotive Technology. These programs reflect Colorado’s growing demand for skilled professionals—and help ensure that MCHS graduates are ready to lead.
Healthcare & Emergency Services CTE Learning Spaces
Fire Science CTE Learning Spaces
More Than Classrooms: A Campus That Brings People Together
Beyond academics, the high school’s design embraces the spirit of community. The project added a second multi-purpose athletic field, enhanced support structures for events and sports and community-friendly features that allow the building to serve as a regional hub. The grand opening saw tremendous community support with a BBQ (featuring Nunn President at the grill) and open house that nearly the entire community attended.
Tyson Nunn Grilling at Grand Opening Ceremony
Whether it’s a Friday night football game, or an event with catering provided from CTE Culinary Chefs, MCHS brings students, families, and local leaders together in meaningful ways.
A Legacy 10 Years in the Making
Looking back, MCHS has proven to be more than a building—it’s a symbol of what’s possible when vision meets execution. For Nunn Construction, it remains a landmark project that showcases our commitment to quality, sustainability, and the transformative power of education.
We’re proud to have been a part of its story—and excited to see what the next decade holds for the students and educators who walk its halls.
Here’s to ten years of impact—and to many more milestones to come.
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