Often referred to as "JM", John Marshall adopted "The Rocket" as its official mascot and red and black as the official school colors. "A mark of excellence" is the motto of the school. After years of discussion, major renovations began to expand the institution's space and upgrade its facilities in the summer of 2005. Notably, a modern science wing was completed in the summer of 2006. The entire reconstruction project was completed in 2008, when John Marshall celebrated its 50th anniversary.