Bishop-Lehr Hall, a central landmark at the University of Northern Colorado symbolizing decades of history and community connections. Now facing demolition, its approaching departure produces many UNC departments and community members to reflect on its lasting impact.
Located in the center of UNC's campus stands Bishop-Lehr Hall. A structure that has witnessed years of educational transformation, controversy and many adjustments. From its start as a laboratory school to its current state of abandonment, this building reflects the history of northern Colorado.
It was named after retired professors Ralph Bishop and Elizabeth Lehr. Initially started as a laboratory school to house College High School, Ernest Horn Elementary and the Special Education School, Bishop-Lehr Hall has served as a training for educators and students.
Each classroom was designed for every age group which helped push students to experiment and learn. The building’s layout, with both inside and outside entrances to classrooms and balconies doubled as outdoor learning spaces ensuring versatility in the building.
This school also held a unique feature that a lot of other schools didn’t have at the time: television. Every teaching station in the school was equipped with a television that could transmit and receive T.V. signals.
Embedded within the laboratory school curriculum are five broad goals aimed at furthering student development: cultivating highly efficient work and study habits, instilling a fundamental and comprehensive understanding of coursework essential for lifelong learning, promoting good mental and physical health alongside associated habits like supporting critical thinking and self-direction. Faculty members were engaged in ongoing studies across different fields like humanities, sciences, health education and more. Building their contributions to the overall program.
The school served an average student population of 180 elementary students (kindergarten through sixth), 280 high school students (seventh though twelfth) and 90 in the special education school. The school saw about 50% of high school graduates transition to higher education to further their academic career.
In the year 2000, plans were set in motion to withdraw funding from the lab school citing problems with funding. The decision sparked outrage among parents and students who saw its impact on the community and District 6.
Negotiations began with parents advocating for alternative solutions to preserve the school, despite their efforts, Bishop-Lehr was eventually closed.
In the wake of its closure, the hall faced an uncertain future. Plans for its renovation and repurposing were proposed, like transforming the building into a central hub for student services and various multicultural centers. However, these proposals faced with resistance and skepticism from students who feared the loss of their individuality and cultural identity.
As renovation plans fell through, Bishop-Lehr Hall stood in a state of limbo. Rumors swirled around the building like it being filled with asbestos, paranormal activity and even tales of a homeless man living in the ceilings while the lab school was still open.
Yet, among the uncertainty, Bishop-Lehr Hall found its new purpose. It became a training ground for the UNC Police Department. It provided a space for them to be able to prepare for invaluable tactical scenarios and emergency response training. Additionally, it served as a storage space for various departments and sports teams around campus.
Amoung an ever-growing need for healthcare professionals, UNC has said they’re excited to make a significant stride in addressing Colorado’s physician shortage. Supported by a $25 million donation from The Weld Trust, the university is gearing up to establish the new College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Osteopathic medicine is all about treating the whole person instead of just symptoms. It's a shift from the old-school allopathic route, attracting a new wave of medicial students. UNC's new medicial school isn't just about fixing rural health gaps—it's part of a bigger trend with more students choosing osteopathic training. With partnerships with big players like Banner Health and UC Health, UNC's making sure students get top-notch clinical training as well.
The new building is expected to be placed where Bishop-Lehr Hall is currently standing. With the impeding changes coming to the land, UNC departments and sport teams are now rushing to find alternative spaces that will hold their training, equipment and materials.
The demolition of the building marks the end of an era. As we say goodbye to Bishop-Lehr Hall, we look back on its extensive impact on the countless lives of residents in the community and students who still attend UNC.
