Grand Junction’s Nisley Elementary is set to take on a new identity next academic year, transforming into an Early Childhood Learning Center. District 51 officials believe the move will extend the school’s legacy while consolidating resources for young learners.
Centralizing Early Learning Programs Under One Roof
Teresa Swanson, the district’s Early Childhood Coordinator, says the facility will serve as a hub for existing early learning programs scattered throughout the district.
“It’s kind of going to be a one-stop shop,” Swanson said. “Right now, we are all over the district. So this will be beautiful for our program.”
Once the transition is complete, the building will accommodate around 250 Pre-K students daily—125 in the morning and another 125 in the afternoon. Offices and the Child Find program, which provides developmental screenings and early intervention services, will also be housed at the new center.
Former Pre-K Sites to Be Relocated
The shift means Pre-K programs from multiple elementary schools—including Clifton, Fruitvale, Chatfield, and Orchard Avenue—will move to Nisley’s campus. This centralization is expected to streamline operations and improve resource allocation.
Josh Worth, a District 51 parent, sees the repurposing of existing school buildings as a financially sound decision.
“I think reusing shuttered facilities is key for, you know, making the best use of taxpayer dollars,” Worth said.
Safety and Renovations Remain a Priority
While Nisley’s conversion is largely driven by academic considerations, safety remains a crucial factor. The school, built in 1958, requires significant upgrades before reopening for younger students.
“The bond work that was voted on will still happen for the Nisley building,” Swanson confirmed. “The building is set to be abated and a new sprinkler system will be installed before any of us move into the building.”
Officials emphasize that all necessary renovations will be completed before students and staff relocate.
Relocation Timeline and Staffing Adjustments
Throughout the spring and summer, staff from existing early childhood centers will transition into their new workspace at Nisley.
The move also provides job stability for those affected by school closures, Swanson noted.
“We’re giving people an opportunity who might be losing their place because we do have preschools at Nisley and at Clifton. Now they have a home in this early childhood center.”
Honoring Nisley’s Legacy Through New Purpose
School closures often spark strong emotions within a community. However, District 51 leaders stress that this repurposing effort aims to preserve the spirit of Nisley Elementary.
“Being able to keep a district property and utilize it for district programming and just keep that legacy going through that rather than sell it off to someone else I think is really important for the community,” Swanson said.
Some parents share that sentiment.
“I just hope that whatever this new program is, it’s honoring the legacy of Nisley and that those parents are feeling good about it,” Worth added.
