In 1927, Arcadia, Alta Loma, and Algoa schools combined to form the Santa Fe Consolidated school district, named for the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe railroad that linked the towns. Architect Harry D. Payne designed a new high school for the district in 1928 to be built about halfway between Arcadia and Alta Loma, and work began with a bond of $42,000. The Spanish Colonial style building featured a clay tile roof, brick exterior, and decorative door surrounds. It was planned with six rooms and a combination auditorium and library for 175 students. The school opened on Oct. 22, 1928, and served as the district’s high school until 1959.