What symbol embodies knowledge, sanctity, and leadership? Here at Saint Bernard High School, the crest features three mitres. It also includes a book. Saint Bernard High School’s story began in 1955. The Westchester-Playa del Rey area needed more high schools then. Classes started in 1957. But they were held at St. Anastasia School first. The present campus was being finished. On December 4, 1957, the site was blessed.
Saint Bernard High School is a coeducational Catholic high school. It is located in Playa Del Rey California. That’s in the West Los Angeles area. You might notice that the school is next to Los Angeles International Airport. It is also across from Westchester High School.
The school’s mission is clear. It aims to develop faith-filled young people. They should be principled and knowledgeable. Saint Bernard High School provides college preparation. It also offers extra-curricular education. This education is rooted in Roman Catholic tradition. The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles oversees the school.
In 2025, St. Bernard High School has about 200 students. The average class size is 11. With a student-to-teacher ratio of 11:1, students get attention here. The campus spans 14 acres. The school colors are blue, white, and gold. Their slogan is empowering hearts, igniting minds, building leaders. St. Bernard High School’s motto is Noverim Te, Noverim Me. This translates to “If I will have known you, O God, I will have known myself.”
Saint Bernard High School offers many activities. There are 14 co-ed sports. These include basketball and track and field. The school is part of the CIF Southern Section and Santa Fe League. The mascot is the Viking. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Students can contribute to “The Odyssey” newspaper or “The Voyager” yearbook. Tuition is about $12500 for the 2024-2025 year.
In the 2007 and 2008 school years, Saint Bernard invested in new computers. In 2008/09, a state-of-the-art video production studio was added. An Academic Success Class started in 2008. It helps students who need extra support. Qualified juniors and seniors become Academic Coaches. They work with students one-on-one and in teams. Teachers use an online portal. Parents can access assignments and syllabi.
Mike Alvarez became the new principal in June 2009. He was previously principal of St. John Bosco High School. The 51st Graduation ceremony was held on June 3, 2011. It took place at The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. This marked the Class of 1961’s 50th reunion. 70% of St. Bernard’s 2011 graduates were accepted to four-year universities. 98% of the class attended higher learning institutes. Enrollment doubled from 2010-2011 to 2011-2012. Because of the increase, St. Bernard High School joined the LMU/LA Family Of Schools.
Dr. Cynthia Hoepner was appointed co-principal in July 2012. She was in charge of Operations. Mike Alvarez oversaw Advancement & Campus Ministry. In 2013, Mike Alvarez resigned. Dr. Cynthia Hoepner became the school’s first female principal. She initiated campus remodeling and upgrades. These included changes to the library, computer labs, and offices. Wifi was also installed. Dr. Patrick Lynch became principal in Fall 2016.
The school’s fine-arts program involves over 100 students. They put on two annual dance recitals. They also have one fall play and one spring musical each year. Recent productions include “Hairspray” “Annie” and “Grease.”
In sports, the girls’ 4 x 100 metres relay team set a national high school record in 1997. Their time was 44.70. This happened at the CIF California State Meet. The record stood for seven years. In 2010, the girls’ basketball team were Division VI Southern Section CIF Champions.
Many notable alumni have walked these halls. They include astronaut Kevin Chilton and baseball shortstop Royce Clayton. Also among them are film director Rick Famuyiwa, actor Taylour Paige, and music producer Khris Riddick-Tynes.
So, as we stand here, remember the motto of Saint Bernard High School. “By knowing Him, I know myself.” It is a place where students are empowered. It is a place where minds are ignited. It is a place where leaders are built.