Is Mater Dei Catholic High School a Catholic high school?

Yes. Mater Dei Catholic High School is a Catholic high school in the Diocese of San Diego.

What is Mater Dei Catholic High School’s Compass Score?

79 out of 100 (grade A). It combines faith (75%) and academics (25%), each rated from official sources.

Catholic high school

Mater Dei Catholic High School

LocationChula Vista, CA
Type and sizeDiocesan school · Grades K–12 · 1,659 students

Mater Dei Catholic High School is a coeducational Catholic high school in Chula Vista, California, part of a TK-12 Mater Dei Catholic campus. Graduation requires 40 theology credits (four years) and 75 Christian service hours; the school holds all-school Masses monthly, offers Mass on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at lunch, and runs mandatory freshman and sophomore retreats plus optional junior retreats and Kairos. A priest chaplain and four other campus ministry staff are listed.

Catholic churches nearby

CampusCatholic centerCatholic church (numbered below)Open a street map ›

Mater Dei Catholic Church — 0.3 mi · 1571 Magdalena Avenue, Chula Vista
Corpus Christi Catholic Church — 2.9 mi · 450 Corral Canyon Road, Bonita

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.

Sacramental life

60 of 100 points on what we could document.

Partly:
All-school or class Masses during the school yearMonthly (Campus Ministry says the school celebrates all-school Masses monthly; the 2026-27 liturgy list gives ten dated Masses from August 20, 2026 (Mass of the Holy Spirit) to May 6, 2027 (Ascension), some for the high school only.)
Sources (1)
1. Campus Ministry - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “As a central aspect of our Catholic identity, Mater Dei Catholic celebrates all-school Masses monthly. We also encourage our students, faculty, and staff to attend Mass on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during lunch.”
  All-school Masses are celebrated monthly, and Mass is offered on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during lunch.
  “August 20, 2026 | Mass of the Holy Spirit | September 8, 2026 | Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (High School Only) | October 13, 2026 | Our Lady of Fatima (High School Only) | November 19, 2026 | Thanksgiving/Grandparents”
  The 2026-27 liturgy schedule lists school Masses on August 20, September 8, October 13 and November 19, 2026.
  “December 8, 2026 | Feast of the Immaculate Conception | February 4, 2027 | Catholic Schools Week | February 10, 2027 | Ash Wednesday | March 17, 2027 | Feast of St. Patrick (High School Only) | April 22, 2027 |”
  Further school Masses are scheduled for December 8, 2026, and February 4, February 10 (Ash Wednesday), March 17 and April 22, 2027.
No:
Daily Mass available to students on campusNo (Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to attend Mass on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during lunch; Mass is not offered every weekday.)
Sources (1)
1. Campus Ministry - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “As a central aspect of our Catholic identity, Mater Dei Catholic celebrates all-school Masses monthly. We also encourage our students, faculty, and staff to attend Mass on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during lunch.”
  All-school Masses are celebrated monthly, and Mass is offered on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during lunch.
Partly:
Confession offered to students during the school yearSeasonally (Advent, Lent) or a few times a year (Reconciliation is part of the voluntary overnight junior retreat, held three times in 2026-27 (September, January, March).)
Sources (1)
1. Campus Ministry - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “On this Retreat, students experience God in a profound way through Faith Talks, Mass, Reconciliation and Adoration. Many students experience a deep conversion experience. These Retreats take the form of overnight off-campus retreats at Whispering Winds Catholic Camp in Julian.”
  The junior retreat is an overnight retreat at Whispering Winds Catholic Camp in Julian that includes Mass, reconciliation and adoration.
  “Attendance is Voluntary Steps for Registration: 1. Select retreat date you would like to attend. Junior Retreat 1 - September 21 & 22, 2026 Junior Retreat 2 - January 25 & 26, 2027 Junior Retreat 3 - March 1 & 2, 2027”
  The voluntary junior retreat is offered three times in 2026-27: September 21-22, January 25-26 and March 1-2.
Partly:
Eucharistic adoration offeredOccasionally (Adoration is part of the voluntary junior retreat (three sessions in 2026-27).)
Sources (1)
1. Campus Ministry - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “On this Retreat, students experience God in a profound way through Faith Talks, Mass, Reconciliation and Adoration. Many students experience a deep conversion experience. These Retreats take the form of overnight off-campus retreats at Whispering Winds Catholic Camp in Julian.”
  The junior retreat is an overnight retreat at Whispering Winds Catholic Camp in Julian that includes Mass, reconciliation and adoration.
  “Attendance is Voluntary Steps for Registration: 1. Select retreat date you would like to attend. Junior Retreat 1 - September 21 & 22, 2026 Junior Retreat 2 - January 25 & 26, 2027 Junior Retreat 3 - March 1 & 2, 2027”
  The voluntary junior retreat is offered three times in 2026-27: September 21-22, January 25-26 and March 1-2.
Yes:
Priest chaplain serving the schoolYes (The faculty and staff directory lists Fr. Memo Hernandez as Chaplain in the Campus Ministry department; the chaplains offer spiritual direction and meet monthly with interested students during theology classes.)
Sources (3)
1. Faculty & Staff - Mater Dei Catholicmaterdeicatholic.org/about/faculty-staff?const_search_keyword=campus%20ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Anthony Glaser Titles: Campus Ministry Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Fr. Memo Hernandez Titles: Chaplain Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Luz Maria Jimenez Titles: Spiritual Direction And Liturgy Preparation Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Kevin Miller Titles: Retreat Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Karelly Paredes Titles: Retreat Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry, Faculty”
  The Campus Ministry department lists five staff, including Fr. Memo Hernandez as Chaplain and Anthony Glaser as Campus Ministry Coordinator.
2. Campus Ministry - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Need some spiritual guidance? Email our Chaplains! Schedule Spiritual Direction”
  Campus Ministry invites students to email the chaplains and schedule spiritual direction.
3. MDCHS Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook 2026-2027resources.finalsite.net/images/v1786652522/materdeicatholicorg/z6hptje5lguucvebb3jo/MDCHS_SP_HB_26-27_FINAL.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Interested students meet with the chaplains once a month during their Theology classes. Students can schedule an appointment through the MDCHS website under Campus Ministry.”
  Chaplains meet monthly with interested students during theology classes and take appointments.

Theology and curriculum

100 of 100 points on what we could document.

Yes:
Years of theology or religion requiredFour years (The 2026-27 handbook requires 40 theology credits, with each semester course worth 5 credits: 8 semesters, or four full years (English also requires 40). Theology is offered from freshman through senior year.)
Sources (2)
1. MDCHS Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook 2026-2027resources.finalsite.net/images/v1786652522/materdeicatholicorg/z6hptje5lguucvebb3jo/MDCHS_SP_HB_26-27_FINAL.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “(Each semester course equals 5 credits) to Graduate Theology 40 English 40”
  Graduation requires 40 theology credits, with each semester course worth 5 credits (eight semesters).
  “Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook 2026–2027”
  The handbook is the 2026-27 edition.
2. Academics - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/academics · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “A variety of theology courses will be offered from freshman all the way through senior year.”
  Theology courses are offered in every year from freshman to senior.
Not enough information:
Theology courses follow the USCCB Curriculum FrameworkNot enough information: not found in official sources.
Not enough information:
Philosophy, apologetics, or ethics course offeredNot enough information: not found in official sources.
Yes:
Faith integrated across the curriculum (stated in the program of studies or mission)Yes (The handbook's Faith Life statement calls religion 'the foundational strength of the whole educational system' and says prayer opens the school day and the start of each class.)
Sources (1)
1. MDCHS Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook 2026-2027resources.finalsite.net/images/v1786652522/materdeicatholicorg/z6hptje5lguucvebb3jo/MDCHS_SP_HB_26-27_FINAL.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Religion is the foundational strength of the whole educational system. The goal of our educators is to help lead our students to Christ.”
  The school describes religion as the foundation of its whole educational system.
  “The day-to-day prayer life, such as prayers to open the school day, start of each class, before lunch, end of the school day, and days of retreat and recollection, is conducive to instilling a religious spirit”
  Prayer opens the school day and each class and is said before lunch and at the end of the day.

Campus culture

100 of 100 points on what we could document.

Yes:
RetreatsA retreat for every grade (Mandatory one-day retreats for freshmen (October 16 and 19, 2026) and sophomores (November 13 and 16, 2026) at Mater Dei Parish; a voluntary overnight junior retreat and the voluntary four-day senior Kairos, each offered three times in 2026-27 at Whispering Winds Catholic Camp in Julian.)
Sources (2)
1. Campus Ministry - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Students will hear Faith Talks, attend Mass, and build community with their classmates. The Freshman Retreat will take place during the school day's normal hours at Mater Dei Parish. Attendance is Mandatory Freshman Retreats - October 16 & 19, 2026”
  Freshmen attend a mandatory one-day retreat with talks and Mass at Mater Dei Parish on October 16 and 19, 2026.
  “The Sophomore Retreat will take place during the school day's normal hours at Mater Dei Parish. Attendance is Mandatory Sophomore Retreats - November 13 & 16, 2026”
  Sophomores attend a mandatory one-day retreat at Mater Dei Parish on November 13 and 16, 2026.
  “On this Retreat, students experience God in a profound way through Faith Talks, Mass, Reconciliation and Adoration. Many students experience a deep conversion experience. These Retreats take the form of overnight off-campus retreats at Whispering Winds Catholic Camp in Julian.”
  The junior retreat is an overnight retreat at Whispering Winds Catholic Camp in Julian that includes Mass, reconciliation and adoration.
  “Attendance is Voluntary Steps for Registration: 1. Select retreat date you would like to attend. Junior Retreat 1 - September 21 & 22, 2026 Junior Retreat 2 - January 25 & 26, 2027 Junior Retreat 3 - March 1 & 2, 2027”
  The voluntary junior retreat is offered three times in 2026-27: September 21-22, January 25-26 and March 1-2.
  “Seniors, who choose to participate in this Four-Day retreat, will have the opportunity to deepen their own faith and personal relationships with others by recognizing God's role in their lives.”
  Seniors may choose to attend the four-day Kairos retreat.
  “Kairos Retreat 6 - September 22-25, 2026 Kairos Retreat 7 - January 26-30, 2027 Kairos Retreat 8 - March 2-5, 2027”
  Kairos is offered three times in 2026-27: September 22-25, January 26-30 and March 2-5.
2. MDCHS Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook 2026-2027resources.finalsite.net/images/v1786652522/materdeicatholicorg/z6hptje5lguucvebb3jo/MDCHS_SP_HB_26-27_FINAL.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Freshmen and sophomores attend a mandatory, one-day on-campus retreat. Special retreats for juniors and seniors are arranged by Campus Ministry.”
  Freshman and sophomore retreats are mandatory; Campus Ministry arranges retreats for juniors and seniors.
Yes:
Campus ministry staffTwo or more (5 staff are listed in the Campus Ministry department: Anthony Glaser (Campus Ministry Coordinator), Fr. Memo Hernandez (Chaplain), Luz Maria Jimenez (Spiritual Direction and Liturgy Preparation Coordinator), and Kevin Miller and Karelly Paredes (Retreat Coordinators). Clifford Rachlin is Service Hours Coordinator and a theology teacher.)
Sources (2)
1. Faculty & Staff - Mater Dei Catholicmaterdeicatholic.org/about/faculty-staff?const_search_keyword=campus%20ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Anthony Glaser Titles: Campus Ministry Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Fr. Memo Hernandez Titles: Chaplain Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Luz Maria Jimenez Titles: Spiritual Direction And Liturgy Preparation Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Kevin Miller Titles: Retreat Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Karelly Paredes Titles: Retreat Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry, Faculty”
  The Campus Ministry department lists five staff, including Fr. Memo Hernandez as Chaplain and Anthony Glaser as Campus Ministry Coordinator.
2. Faculty & Staff - Mater Dei Catholicmaterdeicatholic.org/about/faculty-staff?const_search_keyword=service · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Clifford Rachlin Titles: Service Hours Coordinator/Theology Teacher, Theology”
  Clifford Rachlin is the Service Hours Coordinator and a theology teacher.
Yes:
Faith-based student groups or clubsTwo or more (The Campus Ministry student leadership group (students formed in the Catholic faith who minister to peers in liturgies and retreats), the Ambassadors for Christ (described in the handbook as a ministry), and the Pro-Life Club. No full club directory was readable.)
Sources (3)
1. Student Life - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/student-life · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Students will get the opportunity to be formed in the Catholic faith and be ministers to their peers in liturgies and retreats, demonstrating leadership and living their faith.”
  The Campus Ministry student leadership group forms students in the faith to minister to peers in liturgies and retreats.
  “The Ambassadors for Christ is an organization of Sophomore, Junior, and Senior Mater Dei Catholic students who accept Jesus Christ as a role model and share in the mission of being the face and hands of Christ to others.”
  The Ambassadors for Christ is a student organization for sophomores, juniors and seniors.
2. MDCHS Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook 2026-2027resources.finalsite.net/images/v1786652522/materdeicatholicorg/z6hptje5lguucvebb3jo/MDCHS_SP_HB_26-27_FINAL.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Membership in the Ambassador for Christ Corps is an honor and considered a ministry.”
  The handbook describes the Ambassador for Christ Corps as a ministry.
3. Campus Ministry - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “PRO-LIFE 29 Eleven Maternity Home School Clubs: Pro-Life Club”
  The service program's Pro-Life category lists the 29 Eleven Maternity Home and the school's Pro-Life Club.
Yes:
Daily prayer and liturgical life built into the school dayYes (The handbook describes prayers to open the school day, at the start of each class, before lunch and at the end of the school day.)
Sources (1)
1. MDCHS Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook 2026-2027resources.finalsite.net/images/v1786652522/materdeicatholicorg/z6hptje5lguucvebb3jo/MDCHS_SP_HB_26-27_FINAL.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “The day-to-day prayer life, such as prayers to open the school day, start of each class, before lunch, end of the school day, and days of retreat and recollection, is conducive to instilling a religious spirit”
  Prayer opens the school day and each class and is said before lunch and at the end of the day.

Service and Catholic social teaching

100 of 100 points on what we could document.

Yes:
Required service hours40 or more hours over four years (Christian service hours by grade: 10 (grade 9), 15 (grade 10), 25 (grade 11) and 25 (grade 12), 75 hours over four years; 2026-27 hours are due April 29, 2027.)
Sources (2)
1. MDCHS Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook 2026-2027resources.finalsite.net/images/v1786652522/materdeicatholicorg/z6hptje5lguucvebb3jo/MDCHS_SP_HB_26-27_FINAL.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Grade Requirement Theme 9th Grade 10 Hours Yourself as a Living”
  Ninth graders must complete 10 Christian service hours.
  “Grade Requirement Theme 10th Grade 15 Hours Who is My Neighbor”
  Tenth graders must complete 15 Christian service hours.
  “Grade Requirement Theme 12th Grade 25 Hours Talents in Service of Others”
  Twelfth graders must complete 25 Christian service hours (eleventh graders also complete 25).
2. Campus Ministry - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Service hours are due April 29th, 2027!”
  Service hours for 2026-27 are due April 29, 2027.
Yes:
Catholic social teaching taught in theology coursesYes (Seniors are enrolled in a Catholic Social Teaching theology course in the fall semester (2026-27 summer reading notice).)
Sources (1)
1. Academics - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/academics · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “When you return to school for the 2026 Fall semester, you will be enrolled in a Catholic Social Teaching Theology course for seniors.”
  Seniors take a Catholic Social Teaching theology course.
Yes:
Pro-life engagement (club, March for Life, or similar)Yes (The Christian Service program lists a Pro-Life category: the 29 Eleven Maternity Home and the school's Pro-Life Club.)
Sources (1)
1. Campus Ministry - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “PRO-LIFE 29 Eleven Maternity Home School Clubs: Pro-Life Club”
  The service program's Pro-Life category lists the 29 Eleven Maternity Home and the school's Pro-Life Club.
Yes:
Justice and solidarity programs (immersions, service trips, justice clubs)Yes (The required service program directs students to approved sites serving the unhoused and migrants (including Casa del Migrante Tijuana and other Baja California sites), weekly on-campus tutoring for unhoused students from Monarch Schools, and a Women and Dignity category with the Rachel's Home club.)
Sources (1)
1. Campus Ministry - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “UNHOUSED/HOMELESS AND MIGRANTS Father Joe Villages (Direct sign-up) Catholic Charities Operation Promise”
  Approved service sites for the unhoused and migrants include Father Joe Villages and Catholic Charities.
  “BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO Casa del Migrante Tijuana Centro del Anciano Barroquiel de Fimbres CRIT Tijuana Desayunador Padre Chava”
  Approved service sites in Baja California include a migrant shelter in Tijuana.
  “Monarch Schools (Every Monday at school for unhoused students; Contact Mr. Rachlin)”
  Students can tutor unhoused students from Monarch Schools at school every Monday.
  “WOMEN AND DIGNITY Princess Project School Clubs: Rachel’s Home (Contact Mr. Rachlin)”
  The service program's Women and Dignity category includes the Rachel's Home club.

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

Strengths

Graduation requires 40 theology credits (eight semester courses, four full years), and theology is offered in every grade.
Sources (2)
1. MDCHS Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook 2026-2027resources.finalsite.net/images/v1786652522/materdeicatholicorg/z6hptje5lguucvebb3jo/MDCHS_SP_HB_26-27_FINAL.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “(Each semester course equals 5 credits) to Graduate Theology 40 English 40”
  Graduation requires 40 theology credits, with each semester course worth 5 credits (eight semesters).
2. Academics - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/academics · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “A variety of theology courses will be offered from freshman all the way through senior year.”
  Theology courses are offered in every year from freshman to senior.
All-school Masses are celebrated monthly, and Mass is also offered on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at lunch.
Sources (1)
1. Campus Ministry - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “As a central aspect of our Catholic identity, Mater Dei Catholic celebrates all-school Masses monthly. We also encourage our students, faculty, and staff to attend Mass on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during lunch.”
  All-school Masses are celebrated monthly, and Mass is offered on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during lunch.
  “August 20, 2026 | Mass of the Holy Spirit | September 8, 2026 | Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (High School Only) | October 13, 2026 | Our Lady of Fatima (High School Only) | November 19, 2026 | Thanksgiving/Grandparents”
  The 2026-27 liturgy schedule lists school Masses on August 20, September 8, October 13 and November 19, 2026.
  “December 8, 2026 | Feast of the Immaculate Conception | February 4, 2027 | Catholic Schools Week | February 10, 2027 | Ash Wednesday | March 17, 2027 | Feast of St. Patrick (High School Only) | April 22, 2027 |”
  Further school Masses are scheduled for December 8, 2026, and February 4, February 10 (Ash Wednesday), March 17 and April 22, 2027.
Students complete 75 Christian service hours over four years, including approved pro-life, migrant and homeless service sites.
Sources (2)
1. MDCHS Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook 2026-2027resources.finalsite.net/images/v1786652522/materdeicatholicorg/z6hptje5lguucvebb3jo/MDCHS_SP_HB_26-27_FINAL.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Grade Requirement Theme 9th Grade 10 Hours Yourself as a Living”
  Ninth graders must complete 10 Christian service hours.
  “Grade Requirement Theme 10th Grade 15 Hours Who is My Neighbor”
  Tenth graders must complete 15 Christian service hours.
  “Grade Requirement Theme 12th Grade 25 Hours Talents in Service of Others”
  Twelfth graders must complete 25 Christian service hours (eleventh graders also complete 25).
2. Campus Ministry - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “PRO-LIFE 29 Eleven Maternity Home School Clubs: Pro-Life Club”
  The service program's Pro-Life category lists the 29 Eleven Maternity Home and the school's Pro-Life Club.
  “UNHOUSED/HOMELESS AND MIGRANTS Father Joe Villages (Direct sign-up) Catholic Charities Operation Promise”
  Approved service sites for the unhoused and migrants include Father Joe Villages and Catholic Charities.
A priest chaplain and four other campus ministry staff are listed, and seniors take a Catholic Social Teaching theology course.
Sources (2)
1. Faculty & Staff - Mater Dei Catholicmaterdeicatholic.org/about/faculty-staff?const_search_keyword=campus%20ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Anthony Glaser Titles: Campus Ministry Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Fr. Memo Hernandez Titles: Chaplain Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Luz Maria Jimenez Titles: Spiritual Direction And Liturgy Preparation Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Kevin Miller Titles: Retreat Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Karelly Paredes Titles: Retreat Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry, Faculty”
  The Campus Ministry department lists five staff, including Fr. Memo Hernandez as Chaplain and Anthony Glaser as Campus Ministry Coordinator.
2. Academics - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/academics · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “When you return to school for the 2026 Fall semester, you will be enrolled in a Catholic Social Teaching Theology course for seniors.”
  Seniors take a Catholic Social Teaching theology course.

Concerns

Weekday Mass is listed on two days (Tuesday and Wednesday), not every weekday.
Sources (1)
1. Campus Ministry - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “As a central aspect of our Catholic identity, Mater Dei Catholic celebrates all-school Masses monthly. We also encourage our students, faculty, and staff to attend Mass on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during lunch.”
  All-school Masses are celebrated monthly, and Mass is offered on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during lunch.
Only the freshman and sophomore retreats are mandatory; the junior retreat and Kairos are voluntary.
Sources (2)
1. Campus Ministry - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Attendance is Voluntary Steps for Registration: 1. Select retreat date you would like to attend. Junior Retreat 1 - September 21 & 22, 2026 Junior Retreat 2 - January 25 & 26, 2027 Junior Retreat 3 - March 1 & 2, 2027”
  The voluntary junior retreat is offered three times in 2026-27: September 21-22, January 25-26 and March 1-2.
  “Seniors, who choose to participate in this Four-Day retreat, will have the opportunity to deepen their own faith and personal relationships with others by recognizing God's role in their lives.”
  Seniors may choose to attend the four-day Kairos retreat.
2. MDCHS Parent/Guardian and Student Handbook 2026-2027resources.finalsite.net/images/v1786652522/materdeicatholicorg/z6hptje5lguucvebb3jo/MDCHS_SP_HB_26-27_FINAL.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Freshmen and sophomores attend a mandatory, one-day on-campus retreat. Special retreats for juniors and seniors are arranged by Campus Ministry.”
  Freshman and sophomore retreats are mandatory; Campus Ministry arranges retreats for juniors and seniors.
Confession and adoration were found only as part of the voluntary junior retreat.
Sources (1)
1. Campus Ministry - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “On this Retreat, students experience God in a profound way through Faith Talks, Mass, Reconciliation and Adoration. Many students experience a deep conversion experience. These Retreats take the form of overnight off-campus retreats at Whispering Winds Catholic Camp in Julian.”
  The junior retreat is an overnight retreat at Whispering Winds Catholic Camp in Julian that includes Mass, reconciliation and adoration.

Know something we missed? Suggest a correction.

Campus ministry home

Campus Ministry, Mater Dei Catholic High School

Address: 1615 Mater Dei Drive, Chula Vista, CA 91913
Location: On campus

View on map ↗

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

Catholic clubs and student life

14 groups and regular activities · 11 on campus, 3 off campus

Retreats 4

Junior Retreat: Reconciling with God and NeighborOff campus
September 21-22, 2026; January 25-26, 2027; March 1-2, 2027
Voluntary overnight retreat at Whispering Winds Catholic Camp in Julian with faith talks, Mass, reconciliation and adoration.
materdeicatholic.org, materdeicatholic.org
KairosOff campus
September 22-25, 2026; January 26-30, 2027; March 2-5, 2027
Voluntary four-day senior retreat at Whispering Winds Catholic Camp in Julian.
materdeicatholic.org, materdeicatholic.org
Freshman Retreat: What it Means to Be a CrusaderOn campus
October 16 and 19, 2026
Mandatory one-day retreat with faith talks, Mass and community building, held at Mater Dei Parish during school hours.
materdeicatholic.org
Sophomore Retreat: Loving Your Neighbor and Respecting YourselfOn campus
November 13 and 16, 2026
Mandatory one-day retreat on human dignity and service, with faith talks and Mass, held at Mater Dei Parish.
materdeicatholic.org

Service 4

Christian Service ProgramOff campus
Hours due April 29, 2027
Required service of 10, 15, 25 and 25 hours in grades 9-12 at approved sites serving the unhoused and migrants, women, the unborn, the sick, the environment, students needing tutoring, people with special needs, senior citizens, and communities in Baja California.
materdeicatholic.org, materdeicatholic.org, resources.finalsite.net, resources.finalsite.net, resources.finalsite.net, materdeicatholic.org, materdeicatholic.org, materdeicatholic.org
Rachel's Home clubOn campus
School club listed under the Women and Dignity service category.
materdeicatholic.org
Monarch Schools tutoringOn campus
Mondays
Students tutor unhoused students from Monarch Schools at Mater Dei.
materdeicatholic.org
Senior outreach and Special Olympics daysOn campus
Fall and spring
Service clubs Generations Unity and Service Cookies, Senior Outreach Performances, and Special Olympics days.
materdeicatholic.org, materdeicatholic.org

Faith formation 1

Spiritual direction with the chaplainsOn campus
Monthly during theology classes, or by appointment
Interested students meet with the chaplains for spiritual guidance; appointments are booked online through Campus Ministry.
resources.finalsite.net, materdeicatholic.org

Clubs and groups 2

Pro-Life ClubOn campus
School club listed under the Pro-Life service category, alongside volunteering at the 29 Eleven Maternity Home.
materdeicatholic.org
Ambassadors for ChristOn campus
Sophomores, juniors and seniors who serve as student representatives, hosts and community-service volunteers; the handbook calls membership a ministry.
materdeicatholic.org, resources.finalsite.net

Liturgy and prayer 3

All-school MassesOn campus
Monthly; 2026-27 dates include Aug. 20, Sept. 8, Oct. 13, Nov. 19, Dec. 8, Feb. 4, Feb. 10 (Ash Wednesday), Mar. 17, Apr. 22 and May 6
Monthly school Masses on feasts and occasions such as the Mass of the Holy Spirit, the Immaculate Conception and Catholic Schools Week; some are for the high school only.
materdeicatholic.org, materdeicatholic.org, materdeicatholic.org
Lunchtime MassOn campus
Tuesdays and Wednesdays during lunch
Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to attend Mass during lunch twice a week.
materdeicatholic.org
Campus Ministry student leadersOn campus
Junior and senior Campus Ministry students, enrolled in Campus Ministry classes, minister to peers in liturgies and retreats.
materdeicatholic.org

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

Campus ministry

Campus Ministry

Sources (2)

Campus Ministry - Mater Dei Catholic High Schoolmaterdeicatholic.org/high-school/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
“Liturgical Celebrations, Annual Retreats, and Christian Service Programs are among the avenues to achieve our spiritual goals.”
Campus Ministry runs liturgies, retreats and the Christian Service program.
“Liturgical Celebrations, Annual Retreats, and Christian Service Programs are among the avenues to achieve our spiritual goals.”
Campus Ministry runs liturgies, retreats and the Christian Service program.
“1615 Mater Dei Drive Chula Vista CA 91913 (619) 423-2121”
The school is at 1615 Mater Dei Drive, Chula Vista, CA 91913; phone 423-2121.
Faculty & Staff - Mater Dei Catholicmaterdeicatholic.org/about/faculty-staff?const_search_keyword=campus%20ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
“Anthony Glaser Titles: Campus Ministry Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Fr. Memo Hernandez Titles: Chaplain Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Luz Maria Jimenez Titles: Spiritual Direction And Liturgy Preparation Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Kevin Miller Titles: Retreat Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Karelly Paredes Titles: Retreat Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry, Faculty”
The Campus Ministry department lists five staff, including Fr. Memo Hernandez as Chaplain and Anthony Glaser as Campus Ministry Coordinator.
“Anthony Glaser Titles: Campus Ministry Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Fr. Memo Hernandez Titles: Chaplain Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Luz Maria Jimenez Titles: Spiritual Direction And Liturgy Preparation Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Kevin Miller Titles: Retreat Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry Email: Karelly Paredes Titles: Retreat Coordinator Departments: Campus Ministry, Faculty”
The Campus Ministry department lists five staff, including Fr. Memo Hernandez as Chaplain and Anthony Glaser as Campus Ministry Coordinator.

Reach out

Contact details for School chaplains (Chaplains (spiritual guidance and spiritual direction); Fr. Memo Hernandez is listed as Chaplain) and 3 official social and news channels are available to signed-in users.

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

My rating and notes

Academic Excellence

46 of 100

From federal data, on fixed published scales.

Each measure counts for the share shown.

Graduates going to four-year colleges 75% of score80%
Students per teacher 25% of score16.0 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

Type	Diocesan school
Diocese	Diocese of San Diego, CA
Grades	K–12
Students (all grades)	1,659
Students in grades 9–12	1,158
Coed or single-sex	Coed
Student–teacher ratio	16.0 to 1
Graduates going to 4-year colleges	80%
Setting	City

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

NCES school ID A2370375
1615 Mater Dei Dr, Chula Vista, CA 91913
(619) 423-2121
Report an error or a newer source
Respond as this school

Questions families ask

Is Mater Dei Catholic High School a Catholic high school?: Yes. Mater Dei Catholic High School is a Catholic high school in the Diocese of San Diego.
What is Mater Dei Catholic High School’s Compass Score?: 79 out of 100 (grade A). It combines faith (75%) and academics (25%), each rated from official sources.

Reviews

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

No reviews yet.

More in California · California rankings