West Wing of Cold Springs School in Missoula Shut Down Due to Structural Issues

Temporary Closure of West Wing at Cold Springs School Due to Structural Concerns

MISSOULA, Mont. – In a recent announcement, Missoula County Public Schools disclosed that the west wing of Cold Springs School has been temporarily shut down following a routine structural inspection that revealed indications of a potential roof collapse. This precautionary measure underscores the district’s commitment to safety and the well-being of its community members.

Cold Springs School has a complex history; it was permanently closed as an elementary school in late 2018. However, in a revitalization effort in 2024, the facility was repurposed as a child care center, now serving as a hub for seven child care providers under the Missoula Child Care Advantage Program (MCCA). This program aims to enhance access to quality child care services within the region, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of child care in community development.

Superintendent Micah Hill expressed understanding for the impact this closure has on families relying on these services. “We understand the urgency of this situation for the families who depend on these child care services,” Hill stated. The district is collaborating with its partners to secure suitable temporary locations to ensure continued child care availability for affected families.

In response to the disruption caused by the wing’s closure, the Missoula County Public Schools and the United Way of Missoula County are working in tandem to mitigate the effects on the child care providers. United Way CEO Susan Hay Patrick emphasized their commitment to the providers, stating, “While we work with Missoula County Public Schools and other partners to find suitable locations to house our MCCA providers, we’ll be refunding their recent rent payments and we’ll continue to provide the shared services that are at the heart of the MCCA.”

While the situation remains dynamic, the district has affirmed that the remainder of the building outside of the west wing is unaffected by the structural issues and is safe for use. This clarification provides some reassurance to parents and staff in the other areas of the facility.

The MCCA initiative, spearheaded by the United Way of Missoula County, focuses on collaboratively increasing the availability of accessible child care in the region, fostering solutions that address the diverse needs of families in Missoula. As the district navigates the current challenges, stakeholders remain committed to ensuring the continued support and stability of child care services in the community, reinforcing the significance of these programs in supporting working families.