Over 700 young men walk the halls of Cathedral High School today. These young men are primarily from low-income families. They reside in Los Angeles’ oldest neighborhoods and parishes. Cathedral High School’s story is one of faith and perseverance. It stands as a beacon of hope.
Founded in 1925 by Archbishop John Joseph Cantwell, Cathedral High School was the first Los Angeles Archdiocesan high school for boys. The Christian Brothers have administered the school since its opening. In 1996, an agreement allowed the school to operate as a private Lasallian institution.
Cathedral High School sits northeast of downtown Los Angeles. Its location gives a stunning view of the Los Angeles skyline. You can see the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels and Dodger Stadium nearby. In 1984, it was designated Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument number 281.
But there’s more to the story than just dates and locations.
The school was built on the site of old Calvary Cemetery. Leading families of Los Angeles were buried here. They were relocated at the turn of the 20th century. This history led to the school’s athletic teams being nicknamed the Phantoms. Imagine playing sports on grounds once holding the city’s departed.
For years, Cathedral High School served students from all over Southern California. By the 1950s, most students came from the oldest parishes in the central city. The student population became heavily Latino.
A key shift occurred in the late 1960s. Cathedral High School emphasized college preparation. The curriculum was revised to meet University of California entrance requirements. Cathedral graduates have been accepted at top universities. Harvard, Yale, and Notre Dame are among them.
The school faced a crisis in 1984. The Archdiocese announced the property had been sold. Cathedral High School would close in June 1985. Students, parents, alumni, and friends rallied to save the school. Archbishop Mahony reversed the decision in December 1985. Cathedral High School would continue to serve young men.
The Christian Brothers entered into an arrangement with the Archdiocese of Los Angeles to operate Cathedral High School as a private Catholic School in 1980. Because of the Christian Brothers’ difficult financial situation, Cathedral High School again became an Archdiocesan school in 1987.
Positive changes occurred in the mid-nineties with campus renovations. A seven-period academic program was introduced. Extra-curricular and athletic programs were expanded. Enrollment grew.
In 2005, Cathedral High School began constructing a new gymnasium-science complex. It opened in 2007. The new building incorporated elements from the old gym.
An alumnus from the Class of 1970 made a significant donation in 2008. This gift led to the construction of The Vic Balzano Family Field and Parlapiano & Farfan Track. It was the largest alumni gift in the history of the Christian Brothers District of San Francisco.
Cathedral High School has been a filming location for movies and TV shows. Its architecture and views of the Los Angeles skyline make it a popular spot. “City of Angels”, “All You’ve Got”, and episodes of “Lucifer” are among the productions filmed here.
Cathedral High School offers many clubs and activities. These encourage students to experience Cathedral High School outside the classroom. Life at Cathedral High School extends beyond academics. Students can follow their passions and discover new ones.
Today, Cathedral High School continues to thrive. It provides a quality Catholic college preparatory education. The school fosters a spirit of unity and devotion. Cathedral High School prepares young men for leadership roles. They serve their communities and uphold the values of faith and service.