St. John Paul the Great High School is a multi-phase campus transformation in Denver, Colorado, led by MOA ARCHITECTURE. The project reimagines the former Rosedale Elementary School—originally built in 1924 and decommissioned in 2005—into a thriving Catholic high school rooted in a classical education model. After sitting vacant for more than 15 years, the 4.6-acre site is being revitalized through three phases of design and construction.

 

Phase 1 (Completed Fall 2022) focused on the full renovation of the historic 1924 Center Building. This phase transformed the long-abandoned elementary school into a functional high school, welcoming its inaugural freshman class. Improvements included updated classrooms, building systems, accessibility upgrades, and new site elements such as a parking lot and parent drop-off.

 

Phase 2 (Completed 2024) expanded the campus with a new two-story addition replacing the former south wing. This phase added classrooms, administrative spaces, a commons/auditorium, a chapel, and a kitchen and serving area, along with playground and athletic field improvements. The design integrates traditional materials like wood and stone with modern elements, reflecting the school’s classical mission while enhancing the historic character of the original building.

 

Phase 3 (Currently in Construction / Estimated Completion Summer 2026 ) represents the final phase of the campus buildout, replacing the north wing with a 42,000-square-foot addition. This phase includes a collegiate-style gymnasium and athletic complex, science labs, art and music rooms, additional classrooms, administrative spaces, and a grand lobby with a skywalk connection. The new facilities position the school to compete with top Catholic high schools in the region and support continued enrollment growth.

 

Throughout all phases, MOA ARCHITECTURE worked closely with the school’s leadership and board, adapting the master plan to evolving program needs and fundraising efforts. Advanced visualization tools, including renderings and flythrough animations, played a key role in communicating the vision to stakeholders and donors.

 

Today, the campus stands as a revitalized community anchor. What was once a boarded-up, overgrown site has been transformed into an active, welcoming environment that enhances neighborhood safety, pride, and long-term vitality.