Roosevelt Middle Conversion
Reimagining Roosevelt: From High School to Middle School
When Weld RE-5J passed a bond to restructure its school facilities, the vision was clear: create spaces that prepare students for the future. After building a new high school focused on career concentration, the former Roosevelt High School in Johnstown was transformed into Roosevelt Middle School, serving grades 6–8 and introducing students to early career exploration.
This project was more than a renovation—it was a strategic redesign. Guided by Treanor Architecture, district leaders and community members engaged in a planning process that balanced additions and renovations to align with career-focused goals. The result: a modern learning environment that empowers students with the understanding, experience, and confidence to explore future vocations.
Key changes included demolition of the central core to make way for a new 20,000-square-foot addition featuring a welcoming entry, administration wing, and a bright dining commons that floods the space with natural light. Career Exploration classrooms were relocated to high-visibility areas, creating a hub that celebrates hands-on learning and connects classroom knowledge to real-world skills.
Renovations spanned 100,000 square feet, upgrading classrooms, mechanical and electrical systems, and improving the building envelope. Outdoor spaces were refreshed with new hardscape and landscaping, ensuring the campus feels inviting and functional for both students and the community.
This transformation reflects Weld RE-5J’s commitment to future-ready education, blending tradition with innovation and creating a middle school that serves as a launchpad for lifelong learning.
Key Design Core Values
- Promote and encourage collaboration and community
- Functional indoor and outdoor spaces that support growth
- Welcoming for students, staff, parents and community
- Accessible, inclusive and safe
- Elective and CTE rich
- Attractive & flexible with natural light
Originally built in 1967 with additions in 1996, 2004, and 2007, the previous RHS building sat on 25 acres, while typical high schools in Colorado need at least 80 acres. Repairs and updates were needed totaling more than $40 million.
Funding
Conversion (2020 Bond)
Project Total: $43,354,669 | CDE BEST Grant contributed $22,549,465
These totals include renovation of the Transportation Bus Area at RMS.
Partners
Weld RE-5J was thrilled to celebrate the opening of Roosevelt Middle School
This exciting milestone was marked by the official ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 9, 2025. We are grateful to Ms. Calvillo and her team for their dedication to making the transition smooth for students.
Watch the video to hear Superintendent Nielsen share his pride for Roosevelt Middle School.
Here's to a bright future for our students, staff, and community!
Welcome to Roosevelt Middle School
The Administrative Team shares about the new building through this video shared at the All Staff Meeting in August 2025.
Design Advisory Group
Treanor
Re-imagined school architecture focused on early and integrated career exploration.