Fort Morgan Middle School: Structural Engineering for Modern Campus Design

Project Overview

BKBM provided structural engineering services for the new 115,000-square-foot Fort Morgan Middle School campus. The design features three two-story classroom pods connected by “links,” a two-story open media center wing, a one-story office/administration space, a new gymnasium, and a unique “cafetorium” combining cafeteria and auditorium functions.

Project Highlights

  • Flexible Academic & Community Spaces:
    • Three two-story classroom pods connected by architectural links support collaborative learning and easy campus navigation.
    • Two-story open media center features a dramatic cantilevered roof forming a “nook” surrounded by glazing, supported by a custom “nose cone” structural element for exterior metal panel finishes.
    • Cafetorium with specialized recessed glazing and structural framing for a flexible quasi-stage, supporting performances and gatherings.
  • Gym and Administrative Facilities:
    • Gymnasium constructed with precast wall panels and long-span steel roof joists, providing clear open spaces for athletics.
    • Office/admin area features steel roof joists, CMU shear walls, and select braced frames for strength and resilience.
  • Advanced Structural Systems:
    • Classroom and media center framing employ composite structural steel with braced and moment frames, many designed with extensive Architecturally Exposed Structural Steel (AESS), including connections.
    • Classroom wings include lengthy punched and corner openings in the exterior veneer, utilizing supplementary steel framing to support required openings and daylighting.
    • Cafetorium area framed with AESS structural steel, long-span steel joists, and CMU shear walls for optimal acoustic, visual, and functional performance.

Engineering Solutions

BKBM delivered tailored steel and concrete framing systems to achieve architectural objectives and program functionality. The use of AESS throughout enhances aesthetics and transparency while robust long-span systems and advanced connections provide durability, flexibility, and open, light-filled spaces.

Results & Impact

Fort Morgan Middle School offers state-of-the-art environments for academics, the arts, and athletics—all supporting student learning, wellness, and community engagement. BKBM’s structural engineering expertise created a safe, inspiring, and adaptable campus, positioning the district for long-term educational excellence.