St John Paul the Great

In 2019, a group of Catholic leaders envisioned a new high school rooted in a classical education model and partnered with MOA ARCHITECTURE to bring that vision to life. What began as an adaptive reuse of a long-abandoned 1920s elementary school has evolved into a thriving, multi-phase campus.

Phase 1 focused on transforming the existing building, vacant for over 15 years, into a functional high school for its inaugural freshman class while anticipating future growth. Phase 2 expanded the campus with new classrooms, a commons and auditorium, administrative spaces, a kitchen and serving area, and a chapel. Phase 3, currently in design, will introduce a 42,000-SF addition including a collegiate-style gymnasium, science labs, arts and music spaces, additional classrooms, and a grand lobby with a skywalk connection.

The Inspiration

The project’s design draws inspiration from the original 1920s building, integrating its historic character with modern interventions. Traditional materials such as wood and stone were incorporated throughout the interiors to reflect the school’s classical educational mission, while new additions bring contemporary elements that enliven and unify the campus.

MOA’s approach balanced honoring the past with anticipating the school’s evolving needs, ensuring spaces are flexible, functional, and visually compelling. The contrast of historic and modern elements celebrates the school’s identity and reinforces its role as a vibrant learning environment.

The Impact

The campus transformation has revitalized a long-neglected property into a cornerstone of the neighborhood. Boarded windows and overgrown grounds have been replaced with active, welcoming spaces that foster student engagement and community pride.

Through close collaboration with school leadership and the board, MOA adapted the master plan to accommodate changing program requirements and fundraising timelines, creating a campus that supports academic excellence, arts and athletics, and community connection. The completed phases, and the future Phase 3 addition, position St. John Paul the Great High School to attract students and faculty while making a positive and lasting impact on the surrounding neighborhood.

LEARN MORE:

• St. John Paul the Great | Our Campus