In 1922 Francis Joseph Reitz pledged one million dollars for the school to be built, for which he was presented with the insignia of Knight and Knight Commander of the Order of Pius IX. The original, main building was built three stories high of Ohio gray brick and elaborate trimmings of Indiana limestone with a Tudor-Gothic design. On New Year’s Day, 1925, Reitz Memorial High School, with its 18 classrooms, auditorium that was used as a gymnasium as well, cafeteria, library, candy store, parlor, and large recreation room, was dedicated by Bishop Chartrand of Indianapolis. Classes began on January 5, 1925 with the Brothers of The Holy Cross from Notre Dame University teaching the boys and the Sisters of Providence teaching the girls, each on separate floors.