MENIFEE, CA — C.W. Driver Companies announces the completion of a reconstruction project for Menifee Valley Middle School. The $38-million, 71,277-square-foot project transitioned the campus to a magnet school focused on visual and performing arts. The renovation incorporates critical aspects of an art-focused middle school, the addition of two new classroom buildings, restorations to the Visual and Performing Arts Center, construction of an open-concept library, and repairs to existing locker rooms.

Located in Riverside County, roughly 15 miles north of Temecula, the project consisted of the reconstruction of temporary portables into new, permanent classrooms and lab spaces that create a centralized academic courtyard and cohesive community. To support Menifee Valley Middle School’s transition to becoming a visual and performing arts magnet school, a new music and choir space, as well as a renovated stage in the Visual and Performing Arts Center, were added. The campus introduces outdoor learning areas as well as active learning spaces optimized for use in the arts, music, and sciences known as Flex Labs.

“By leveraging decades of K-12 construction experience, we were proud to deliver a cutting-edge campus that will serve the growing Menifee community both now and well into the future,” said Eric Metzger, Project Manager at C.W. Driver Companies. “The tactful modernization of Menifee Valley Middle School allows for the space to adapt as educational and enrollment needs evolve over time.”

In order to increase student academic performance, research-based lighting design was carefully considered. Large windows adorn the classrooms, allowing for abundant natural light. The school’s new library includes a flexible plan configuration, collaboration spaces to facilitate group work, and soft seating areas. On the athletic front, renovations to existing locker rooms include ADA upgrades, AV improvements, and a washer/dryer addition. The campus features an energy efficient and contemporary façade.

“We carefully considered and incorporated input from our school community during the planning and construction phases of the reconstruction,” said Dr. Jennifer Root, Superintendent at Menifee Union School District. “The result is a beautiful, collective effort from which we will teach and encourage students to live out the district’s vision of 'Engaging Young Minds for Limitless Futures' for years to come.”

C.W. Driver partnered with BakerNowicki Design Studio on Menifee Valley Middle School.