Park Forest Middle School Project
In 2023, a districtwide facilities master plan process began in October to assess building conditions, enrollment projects, and educational programs primarily at the middle level. The DWFMP also addressed sustainability, transportation operations, security, playground conditions, and athletic program needs.
As part of the DWFMP, after evaluating three district-owned sites for a new three-story, 200,000 square-foot Park Forest Middle School, the district and the architectural firm of Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates chose a tract across Valley Vista Drive from the current school, next to Circleville Park. The district held four community forums — two in February and two in April — to provide updates on the design process and the project overall.
In May 2026, the Board of Directors approved bids and the project was set to move forward. Total bids amounted to just over $112.3 million. This included just over $104.6 million for base bids and another $7.6 million for alternative bids, which included solar panels, a retaining wall needed for construction, and bird-friendly glass for portions of the building.
Lobar, Inc. is the general contractor. This same company also served as the contractor for the high school project and three recent elementary school projects.
In August 2026, early site preparation began on the project. This first phase included the creation of a stormwater basin on the existing middle school grounds along Valley Vista Drive. Across the street, site preparation began where the new school will be built next to Circleville Park.
Additionally, a new access road to the future middle school building was created at the intersection of Valley Vista Drive and Amblewood Way.