Catholic School CompassTrue north for Catholic families.
Cathedral Catholic High School: Cathedral Catholic High School Facilities
Photo: Anonymous, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Catholic high school

Cathedral Catholic High School

  • LocationSan Diego, CA
  • Type and sizeDiocesan school · Grades 9–12 · 1,669 students

Cathedral Catholic High School is a coeducational Catholic high school in the Diocese of San Diego. Students take religious studies all four years, attend all-school Masses at least monthly (17 are scheduled for 2026-27), and are offered a retreat in every grade, including junior Quest and senior Kairos retreats. Mass is celebrated Tuesday through Thursday mornings in the St. Thérèse Chapel, a priest serves as chaplain, and confession is available by appointment and at a yearly Lenten penance service.

Mass, confession, and adoration

Confirm with the parish

Mass 1

  • Tuesday–Thursday7:15 AM–7:45 AMSt. Thérèse Chapel · Before school, during the school year.

Times come only from official parish, chaplaincy, or school pages, and can change with the season. Last verified Oct. 8, 2026.

Sources for these times (1)
  1. Liturgy and Mass FAQs | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/dons-portal/catholic-mission-resources/liturgy-and-mass-faqs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Students are welcome to attend daily Masses in the St. Thérèse Chapel on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:15-7:45 am (before school).”
    Weekday Mass is offered Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 7:15 am before school.

Catholic churches nearby

Map of Cathedral Catholic High School, its Catholic center and nearby Catholic churches1 mi2 mi3 miSaint Therese of Carmel Catholic Church: 1.6 mi1Nativity Catholic Church: 2.6 mi2Office of Catholic Mission and St. Thérèse Chapel, Cathedral Catholic High School: 0.1 miCathedral Catholic High School (campus)N2 mi
CampusCatholic centerCatholic church (numbered below)Open a street map ›
  1. Saint Therese of Carmel Catholic Church — 1.6 mi · 4355 Del Mar Trails Road, San Diego
  2. Nativity Catholic Church — 2.6 mi · 6309 El Apajo Road, Rancho Santa Fe

Within 3 miles, as mapped by OpenStreetMap contributors. The map may be incomplete. Confirm with the parish or diocese.

Faith scorecard

Each line is one thing we looked for. A check means yes, a half means partly, a dash means no. “Not enough information” means official sources did not say.

CSacramental life: Mixed (grade C): 55 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Sacramental life

60 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    All-school or class Masses during the school yearMonthly (School-wide liturgies are held in the Claver Center at least once a month and on all holy days of obligation; the 2026-27 list has 17 all-school liturgies (16 Masses and Stations of the Cross), and attendance is mandatory.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Sacramental Opportunities | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/catholic-mission/sacramental-opportunities · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Liturgy of the Eucharist is held Tuesday-Thursday mornings from 7:15-7:45 in the St. Thérèse Chapel. School-wide liturgies are held in the Claver Center at least once a month, including on all Holy Days of Obligation.”
      Mass is celebrated Tuesday to Thursday mornings in the St. Thérèse Chapel; school-wide liturgies are held at least monthly and on holy days.
    2. Liturgy and Mass FAQs | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/dons-portal/catholic-mission-resources/liturgy-and-mass-faqs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Therefore, attendance at all school-wide Masses is mandatory and will be considered part of the student’s overall attendance record.”
      Attendance at school-wide Masses is mandatory.
  • No: No: the school does not offer this, so it earns no points.
    Daily Mass available to students on campusNo (Mass is offered Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 7:15-7:45 am in the St. Thérèse Chapel; it is not offered every weekday.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Sacramental Opportunities | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/catholic-mission/sacramental-opportunities · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Liturgy of the Eucharist is held Tuesday-Thursday mornings from 7:15-7:45 in the St. Thérèse Chapel. School-wide liturgies are held in the Claver Center at least once a month, including on all Holy Days of Obligation.”
      Mass is celebrated Tuesday to Thursday mornings in the St. Thérèse Chapel; school-wide liturgies are held at least monthly and on holy days.
    2. Liturgy and Mass FAQs | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/dons-portal/catholic-mission-resources/liturgy-and-mass-faqs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Students are welcome to attend daily Masses in the St. Thérèse Chapel on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:15-7:45 am (before school).”
      Weekday Mass is offered Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 7:15 am before school.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Confession offered to students during the school yearSeasonally (Advent, Lent) or a few times a year (Reconciliation is available Monday through Thursday by appointment with a school chaplain, and all students attend a yearly Lenten penance service during the school day.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Sacramental Opportunities | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/catholic-mission/sacramental-opportunities · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available Monday through Thursday by appointment. Students may email one of the school chaplains to schedule an appointment. All students also attend a yearly Lenten Penance Service during the school day.”
      Confession is available by appointment Monday to Thursday with the school chaplains, and all students attend a yearly Lenten penance service.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Eucharistic adoration offeredOccasionally (The Liturgy FAQ describes exposition in the chapel, and adoration is among the prayer forms in senior religion classes.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Liturgy and Mass FAQs | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/dons-portal/catholic-mission-resources/liturgy-and-mass-faqs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The priest takes a consecrated host and places it in a monstrance (monstrance comes from the Latin “monstrare,” which means to show, to expose or to view). The monstrance is then placed on the altar of the chapel for exposition.”
      The school's Liturgy FAQ describes Eucharistic exposition and adoration in the chapel.
    2. Catholic Faith 12, Curriculum Guide 2026-2027docs.google.com/document/d/1MP-3rF9gGL19QUphl95GvfZTQEodmGYAGI8Ao0Grfqk/export?format=txt · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Intentional space for personal prayer development allows students to experience various prayer forms, including Liturgy, Meditation, Ignatian Examen, Rosary, and Adoration. Faith in Action experiences include Reconciliation, Senior Service Project, and Dons Time.”
      Senior religion classes include adoration, the rosary and reconciliation among their prayer and faith experiences.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Priest chaplain serving the schoolYes (Fr. Matt Vasquez is presented as the school's chaplain; the school refers to its school chaplains in the plural.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Catholic Mission & Values | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/about-us/catholic-mission-values · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Get to Know our Chaplain Fr. Matt Vasquez”
      Fr. Matt Vasquez is the school's chaplain.
    2. Sacramental Opportunities | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/catholic-mission/sacramental-opportunities · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available Monday through Thursday by appointment. Students may email one of the school chaplains to schedule an appointment. All students also attend a yearly Lenten Penance Service during the school day.”
      Confession is available by appointment Monday to Thursday with the school chaplains, and all students attend a yearly Lenten penance service.
ATheology and curriculum: Strong (grade A): 85 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Theology and curriculum

100 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Years of theology or religion requiredFour years (Graduation requires 40 credits of religious studies at five credits per semester course, i.e. eight semesters. Catholic Faith courses are offered for grades 9, 10, 11 and 12 (Academic Policies 2026-2027).)
    Sources (2)
    1. Academic Policies 2026-2027, Cathedral Catholic High School (Graduation Requirements)docs.google.com/document/d/1zwZ4Fa4uwAs80CX26DmAKzZxDCy9wWPF5S1gUi8L93A/export?format=txt · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Five credits are awarded for completion of a semester course. Students must complete 280 credits to earn a Cathedral Catholic High School diploma. Religious Studies 40 credits”
      Graduation requires 40 credits (eight semester courses) of religious studies.
    2. Curriculum & Programs | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/academics-counseling/curriculum-programs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Religion Catholic Foundations 9 | Catholic Faith 9 | Catholic Faith 10 | Catholic Innovations 10 | Catholic Faith 11 | Catholic Innovations 11 | Campus Ministry 11 | Catholic Faith 12 |”
      Religion courses are offered at each grade level, 9 through 12.
  • Not enough information: Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Theology courses follow the USCCB Curriculum FrameworkNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Philosophy, apologetics, or ethics course offeredYes (Catholic Philosophy and the Human Person 12 surveys philosophy, including metaphysics, epistemology and ethics.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Catholic Philosophy and the Human Person 12, Curriculum Guide 2026-2027docs.google.com/document/d/12UXtVnKvSkc_OPy7NhNoWK7439wt84pQlXlmqh4WFa8/export?format=txt · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The course surveys key branches of philosophy—including metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics–as well as anthropology—and examines influential thinkers such as the Pre-Socratics, Plato, Aristotle, Aquinas, Kant, and Descartes.”
      A senior philosophy course covers metaphysics, epistemology and ethics.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Faith integrated across the curriculum (stated in the program of studies or mission)Yes (The curriculum guide states the school's mission to cultivate a Catholic worldview across the curriculum.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Catholic Philosophy and the Human Person 12, Curriculum Guide 2026-2027docs.google.com/document/d/12UXtVnKvSkc_OPy7NhNoWK7439wt84pQlXlmqh4WFa8/export?format=txt · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “This course supports CCHS’s mission to cultivate a Catholic worldview across the curriculum and foster the human and moral formation of students grounded in the Christian faith.”
      The curriculum guide names the school's mission to cultivate a Catholic worldview across the curriculum.
ACampus culture: Strong (grade A): 85 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Campus culture

100 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    RetreatsA retreat for every grade (One-day on-campus retreats for freshmen and sophomores, the optional three-day Quest retreat for juniors, and the optional Kairos retreat for seniors.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Retreat Information | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/dons-portal/catholic-mission-resources/retreat-information · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Cathedral Catholic offers retreats for each of the four classes.”
      Retreats are offered for every grade.
      “Freshman Retreat is a one-day retreat held on campus on February 16, 17, 18 and 19, 2027.”
      The freshman retreat is a one-day on-campus retreat in February 2027.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Campus ministry staffTwo or more (Named: a Dean of Catholic Mission, a Director of Retreats and a chaplain (Fr. Matt Vasquez); the school refers to more than one school chaplain.)
    Sources (3)
    1. Retreat Information | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/dons-portal/catholic-mission-resources/retreat-information · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Catholic Mission Team: Jeff Gramme, Director of Retreats or Kristine Bacich, Dean of Catholic Mission”
      Jeff Gramme is Director of Retreats and Kristine Bacich is Dean of Catholic Mission.
    2. Catholic Mission & Values | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/about-us/catholic-mission-values · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Get to Know our Chaplain Fr. Matt Vasquez”
      Fr. Matt Vasquez is the school's chaplain.
    3. Sacramental Opportunities | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/catholic-mission/sacramental-opportunities · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available Monday through Thursday by appointment. Students may email one of the school chaplains to schedule an appointment. All students also attend a yearly Lenten Penance Service during the school day.”
      Confession is available by appointment Monday to Thursday with the school chaplains, and all students attend a yearly Lenten penance service.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Faith-based student groups or clubsTwo or more (The official clubs page lists four spiritual clubs (Dons For Life, Rosary Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Sweet Scripture); chaplains also lead weekly lunchtime Bible studies.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Clubs & Initiatives | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/campus-life/clubs-initiatives · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Cathedral Catholic High School Spiritual Clubs | | Dons For Life | Rosary Club | Fellowship of Christian Athletes | Sweet Scripture |”
      Spiritual clubs are Dons For Life, Rosary Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Sweet Scripture.
    2. Sacramental Opportunities | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/catholic-mission/sacramental-opportunities · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “School chaplains hold weekly lunchtime bible studies and lead other prayer groups.”
      The chaplains lead weekly lunchtime Bible studies and other prayer groups.
  • Not enough information: Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Daily prayer and liturgical life built into the school dayNot enough information: not found in official sources.
AService and Catholic social teaching: Strong (grade A): 85 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Service and Catholic social teaching

100 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Not enough information: Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Required service hoursNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Catholic social teaching taught in theology coursesYes (Catholic Faith 11 includes Catholic Social Teaching units, and Catholic Faith 12 studies Catholic Social Teaching and social justice.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Catholic Faith 12, Curriculum Guide 2026-2027docs.google.com/document/d/1MP-3rF9gGL19QUphl95GvfZTQEodmGYAGI8Ao0Grfqk/export?format=txt · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “They study Catholic Social Teaching and the ideas of social justice, ethics, and opportunity for all.”
      Senior religion students study Catholic Social Teaching.
    2. Catholic Faith 11, Curriculum Guide 2026-2027docs.google.com/document/d/19VNGD_-EdMBC9iNsaM_JX84OZ6K3w48hsa0xoQJxOjg/export?format=txt · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The United States Catholic Conference of Bishops summarized the social teaching of the Church in seven key themes that serve as a guide for living as a disciple in modern society.”
      The junior religion course includes units on Catholic Social Teaching.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Pro-life engagement (club, March for Life, or similar)Yes (Dons For Life, a pro-life club under the Office for Catholic Mission (2025-26 club list, the most recent posted), is listed among the spiritual clubs on the current clubs page.)
    Sources (2)
    1. 2025-2026 CCHS Clubs (Full List of Clubs and Descriptions)docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1gd9A7oOReypt88bUzK6tloRlyD0Zfy80RDK3z0V1N54/edit?gid=0 · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Dons For Life | Spiritual | Matthew | Smith | Katelyn | Vadukoot | Pro-Life approved club under Office for Catholic Mission to support and promote pro-life issues in our community through prayer and action.”
      Dons For Life is a pro-life club under the Office for Catholic Mission.
    2. Clubs & Initiatives | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/campus-life/clubs-initiatives · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Cathedral Catholic High School Spiritual Clubs | | Dons For Life | Rosary Club | Fellowship of Christian Athletes | Sweet Scripture |”
      Spiritual clubs are Dons For Life, Rosary Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Sweet Scripture.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Justice and solidarity programs (immersions, service trips, justice clubs)Yes (The Faith in Action program works with Catholic Charities, Catholic Relief Services, St. Vincent de Paul and Homeboy Industries and aims to foster awareness of justice; clubs include a Human Rights Club, Mini Vinnies (St. Vincent de Paul youth) and Build A Miracle (house-building trips to Tijuana).)
    Sources (3)
    1. Service Program | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/catholic-mission/service-program · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Interactions include support of: Catholic Charities Catholic Relief Services St. Vincent de Paul Father Joe's Villages Nazareth House Senior Living Community Homeboy Industries Local Catholic schools”
      The Faith in Action service program supports Catholic Charities, Catholic Relief Services, St. Vincent de Paul, Father Joe's Villages, Homeboy Industries and others.
    2. 2025-2026 CCHS Clubs (Full List of Clubs and Descriptions)docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1gd9A7oOReypt88bUzK6tloRlyD0Zfy80RDK3z0V1N54/edit?gid=0 · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “We raise money to build houses for the homeless in Tijuana, Mexico, and take the trip ourselves to hands on build them.”
      Build A Miracle raises money for and travels to build houses for homeless families in Tijuana.
      “Our club is the San Diego youth chapter of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. Our mission is to instill in-person service interactions in the youth of our community.”
      Mini Vinnies is the youth chapter of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul.
    3. Clubs & Initiatives | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/campus-life/clubs-initiatives · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Eye Fight for Sight | Super Joey Foundation | Human Rights Club | Surf-Rider Foundation |”
      A Human Rights Club is among the service clubs.

Grades come from the documented indicators under the published rubric. “Not enough information” does not mean the school lacks it.

Strengths

  • All-school Masses are held at least monthly and on holy days, with attendance required, and Mass is offered three weekday mornings in the chapel.
    Sources (2)
    1. Sacramental Opportunities | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/catholic-mission/sacramental-opportunities · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Liturgy of the Eucharist is held Tuesday-Thursday mornings from 7:15-7:45 in the St. Thérèse Chapel. School-wide liturgies are held in the Claver Center at least once a month, including on all Holy Days of Obligation.”
      Mass is celebrated Tuesday to Thursday mornings in the St. Thérèse Chapel; school-wide liturgies are held at least monthly and on holy days.
    2. Liturgy and Mass FAQs | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/dons-portal/catholic-mission-resources/liturgy-and-mass-faqs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Therefore, attendance at all school-wide Masses is mandatory and will be considered part of the student’s overall attendance record.”
      Attendance at school-wide Masses is mandatory.
      “Students are welcome to attend daily Masses in the St. Thérèse Chapel on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:15-7:45 am (before school).”
      Weekday Mass is offered Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 7:15 am before school.
  • Students take religious studies all four years, with Catholic Social Teaching in the junior and senior courses and a senior Catholic philosophy option.
    Sources (4)
    1. Academic Policies 2026-2027, Cathedral Catholic High School (Graduation Requirements)docs.google.com/document/d/1zwZ4Fa4uwAs80CX26DmAKzZxDCy9wWPF5S1gUi8L93A/export?format=txt · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Five credits are awarded for completion of a semester course. Students must complete 280 credits to earn a Cathedral Catholic High School diploma. Religious Studies 40 credits”
      Graduation requires 40 credits (eight semester courses) of religious studies.
    2. Catholic Faith 12, Curriculum Guide 2026-2027docs.google.com/document/d/1MP-3rF9gGL19QUphl95GvfZTQEodmGYAGI8Ao0Grfqk/export?format=txt · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “They study Catholic Social Teaching and the ideas of social justice, ethics, and opportunity for all.”
      Senior religion students study Catholic Social Teaching.
    3. Catholic Faith 11, Curriculum Guide 2026-2027docs.google.com/document/d/19VNGD_-EdMBC9iNsaM_JX84OZ6K3w48hsa0xoQJxOjg/export?format=txt · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The United States Catholic Conference of Bishops summarized the social teaching of the Church in seven key themes that serve as a guide for living as a disciple in modern society.”
      The junior religion course includes units on Catholic Social Teaching.
    4. Catholic Philosophy and the Human Person 12, Curriculum Guide 2026-2027docs.google.com/document/d/12UXtVnKvSkc_OPy7NhNoWK7439wt84pQlXlmqh4WFa8/export?format=txt · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The course surveys key branches of philosophy—including metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics–as well as anthropology—and examines influential thinkers such as the Pre-Socratics, Plato, Aristotle, Aquinas, Kant, and Descartes.”
      A senior philosophy course covers metaphysics, epistemology and ethics.
  • Retreats are offered for each of the four classes, including off-campus Quest and Kairos retreats included in tuition.
    Sources (1)
    1. Retreat Information | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/dons-portal/catholic-mission-resources/retreat-information · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Cathedral Catholic offers retreats for each of the four classes.”
      Retreats are offered for every grade.
      “Quest is the retreat for juniors. Juniors are invited to participate in one of three Quest retreats located at Whispering Winds Conference Center or Palomar Christian Conference Center.”
      Juniors may attend one of three Quest retreats at off-campus conference centers.
      “Seniors are invited to participate in one of five Kairos retreats located at Palomar Christian Conference Center.”
      Seniors may attend a Kairos retreat at Palomar Christian Conference Center.
  • A priest serves as chaplain, chaplains lead weekly Bible studies, and the school lists four spiritual clubs including the pro-life Dons For Life.
    Sources (3)
    1. Catholic Mission & Values | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/about-us/catholic-mission-values · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Get to Know our Chaplain Fr. Matt Vasquez”
      Fr. Matt Vasquez is the school's chaplain.
    2. Sacramental Opportunities | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/catholic-mission/sacramental-opportunities · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “School chaplains hold weekly lunchtime bible studies and lead other prayer groups.”
      The chaplains lead weekly lunchtime Bible studies and other prayer groups.
    3. Clubs & Initiatives | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/campus-life/clubs-initiatives · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Cathedral Catholic High School Spiritual Clubs | | Dons For Life | Rosary Club | Fellowship of Christian Athletes | Sweet Scripture |”
      Spiritual clubs are Dons For Life, Rosary Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Sweet Scripture.

Concerns

  • Weekday Mass is offered Tuesday through Thursday only, not every weekday.
    Sources (1)
    1. Liturgy and Mass FAQs | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/dons-portal/catholic-mission-resources/liturgy-and-mass-faqs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Students are welcome to attend daily Masses in the St. Thérèse Chapel on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:15-7:45 am (before school).”
      Weekday Mass is offered Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 7:15 am before school.
  • Confession is by appointment plus a yearly Lenten penance service.
    Sources (1)
    1. Sacramental Opportunities | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/catholic-mission/sacramental-opportunities · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available Monday through Thursday by appointment. Students may email one of the school chaplains to schedule an appointment. All students also attend a yearly Lenten Penance Service during the school day.”
      Confession is available by appointment Monday to Thursday with the school chaplains, and all students attend a yearly Lenten penance service.
  • Service hours are not a graduation requirement.
    Sources (2)
    1. Faith In Action Service Program | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/dons-portal/catholic-mission-resources/faith-in-action-service-program · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Students do not need to log their hours into the Service Hour Database. It is completely optional as this is not a graduation requirement.”
      Logged service hours are not a graduation requirement.
    2. Catholic Faith 12, Curriculum Guide 2026-2027docs.google.com/document/d/1MP-3rF9gGL19QUphl95GvfZTQEodmGYAGI8Ao0Grfqk/export?format=txt · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “All seniors are required to complete an independent Christian Service Project. They must participate in three service experiences by set dates within the school year.”
      Seniors must complete a Christian Service Project of three service experiences.

Know something we missed? Suggest a correction.

Campus ministry home

Office of Catholic Mission and St. Thérèse Chapel, Cathedral Catholic High School

  • Address: 5555 Del Mar Heights Road, San Diego, CA 92130
  • Location: On campus
  • Facilities: chapel, garden prayer areas, food pantry

View on map ↗

Source: cathedralcatholic.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026, cathedralcatholic.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026, cathedralcatholic.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026, cathedralcatholic.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026

Catholic clubs and student life

20 groups and regular activities · 14 on campus, 6 off campus

Retreats 4

  • Quest (junior retreat)Off campus
    Optional three-day retreat at Whispering Winds or Palomar Christian Conference Center; included in tuition.
  • Kairos (senior retreat)Off campus
    Optional three-day, two-night retreat at Palomar Christian Conference Center; four sessions in 2026-27.
  • Freshman RetreatOn campus
    February 2027
    One-day retreat on the theme "Let My Gifts Change the World.".
  • Sophomore RetreatOn campus
    November 2026
    One-day retreat on the theme "Live the Call," focused on serving others.

Service 5

  • Senior Christian Service ProjectOff campus
    Seniors complete three service experiences with reflections as part of Catholic Faith 12.
  • Faith in Action service programOff campus
    Service opportunities by grade level with Catholic Charities, Catholic Relief Services, St. Vincent de Paul, Father Joe's Villages, Homeboy Industries and local Catholic schools.
  • Mini VinniesOff campus
    Youth chapter of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (2025-26 club list).
  • Build A MiracleOff campus
    Club that raises money for and travels to build houses for homeless families in Tijuana, Mexico (2025-26 club list).
  • Zak Myers Food Pantry serviceOn campus
    Freshmen and juniors serve at the on-campus food pantry during religion class.

Faith formation 1

  • Chaplain-led Bible studies and prayer groupsOn campus
    Weekly at lunch
    School chaplains hold weekly lunchtime Bible studies and lead other prayer groups.

Clubs and groups 5

Liturgy and prayer 4

  • Weekday MassOn campus
    Tuesday-Thursday, 7:15-7:45 AM
    Mass in the St. Thérèse Chapel before school.
  • All-school MassesOn campus
    At least monthly and on holy days of obligation
    Mandatory school-wide liturgies in the Claver Center; 17 are listed for 2026-27.
  • Sports team MassesOn campus
    Each sports season
    Each team attends a Mass in the chapel each season.
  • Lenten Penance ServiceOn campus
    Yearly, during Lent
    All students attend a penance service during the school day; confession is also available by appointment Monday-Thursday.

Social life 1

  • Mass and MunchOn campus
    Every other Tuesday morning (2025-26 club list)
    Club that attends morning Mass in the chapel together, followed by breakfast.

Everything listed is published by the school, its campus ministry, or the parish. Ask the campus minister what’s happening this semester.

Campus ministry

Sources (4)
  1. Catholic Mission Overview | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/catholic-mission/catholic-mission-overview · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “The Office of Catholic Mission is responsible for Cathedral Catholic High School’s religious curriculum and campus ministry program.”
    The Office of Catholic Mission runs the religion curriculum and campus ministry.
    “The Office of Catholic Mission is responsible for Cathedral Catholic High School’s religious curriculum and campus ministry program.”
    The Office of Catholic Mission runs the religion curriculum and campus ministry.
  2. Retreat Information | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/dons-portal/catholic-mission-resources/retreat-information · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Catholic Mission Team: Jeff Gramme, Director of Retreats or Kristine Bacich, Dean of Catholic Mission”
    Jeff Gramme is Director of Retreats and Kristine Bacich is Dean of Catholic Mission.
  3. Sacramental Opportunities | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/catholic-mission/sacramental-opportunities · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “The Liturgy of the Eucharist is held Tuesday-Thursday mornings from 7:15-7:45 in the St. Thérèse Chapel. School-wide liturgies are held in the Claver Center at least once a month, including on all Holy Days of Obligation.”
    Mass is celebrated Tuesday to Thursday mornings in the St. Thérèse Chapel; school-wide liturgies are held at least monthly and on holy days.
    “The St. Thérèse Chapel is open and available before, during and after school for all members of Cathedral Catholic’s faith community. The beautiful chapel and serene garden areas are quiet spaces for contemplation and prayer.”
    The St. Thérèse Chapel and garden areas are open for prayer before, during and after school.
  4. Contact Us | Cathedral Catholic High Schoolcathedralcatholic.org/contact · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Address: 5555 Del Mar Heights Road San Diego, CA 92130 | Main Office Telephone: (858) 523-4000”
    The school is at 5555 Del Mar Heights Road, San Diego, CA 92130; the main office phone is 523-4000.

Reach out

Contact details for Kristine Bacich (Dean of Catholic Mission (no direct line published; school main office number)) and 2 official social and news channels are available to signed-in users.

Sign in Create a free account

We keep campus ministers’ emails behind sign-in to protect them from spam.

My rating and notes

Sign in or create a free account to rate this school privately, keep notes, and save it to your list.

Academic Excellence

DAcademic Excellence: Limited (grade D): 40 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.
53 of 100
From federal data, on fixed published scales.

Each measure counts for the share shown.

  • Graduates going to four-year colleges 75% of scoreThis measure counts for 75% of the Academic Excellence score.85%
  • Students per teacher 25% of scoreThis measure counts for 25% of the Academic Excellence score.16.9 to 1

Bars show points on each measure’s scale. How Academic Excellence is computed. Federal data on private high schools is limited to these two measures.

Source: NCES Private School Survey (2023–24 school year)

School facts

TypeDiocesan school
DioceseDiocese of San Diego, CA
Grades9–12
Students (all grades)1,669
Students in grades 9–121,669
Coed or single-sexCoed
Student–teacher ratio16.9 to 1
Graduates going to 4-year colleges85%
SettingCity

Source: NCES Private School Survey 23-24 public-use file (school year 2023–24). The college-going rate and student–teacher ratio feed Academic Excellence; nothing here changes the faith grades.

Local Church

Diocese of San Diego

The Most Reverend Michael Pham, Bishop of San Diego

Formal address: “Your Excellency”

Source: usccb.org, verified Oct. 7, 2026.

About this school’s data

Questions families ask

Is Cathedral Catholic High School a Catholic high school?
Yes. Cathedral Catholic High School is a Catholic high school in the Diocese of San Diego.
What is Cathedral Catholic High School’s Compass Score?
81 out of 100 (grade A). It combines faith (75%) and academics (25%), each rated from official sources.
Where is Mass celebrated at Cathedral Catholic High School?
Mass is listed at St. Thérèse Chapel. Days and times are on this page; please confirm with the parish or campus ministry before you go.
Is Cathedral Catholic High School Compass Recommended?
Yes. Cathedral Catholic High School meets the Compass Recommended standard for Catholic identity and academics.

Reviews

Personal experiences from signed-in readers. Reviews are moderated automatically and never change a school’s grades.

No reviews yet.

Sign in to write a review.

More in California · California rankings