MISSION
The 1980s and 1990s saw further advancements and new facilities Opened in September 1950 with 111 students
In 1951, a statue of Our Blessed Mother, donated by the Young Ladies Institute, was placed in the Grotto to symbolize the school's commitment to excellence under Mary, Mother of God
The first graduating class established key traditions:
The Monarch (a lion) as our mascot Red and gray as our official colors
Set a high standard of academic excellence
Enrollment soared to 2,200 by 1960 making MD the largest Catholic high school west of Chicago
The MD 2000 Capital Campaign fueled success in academics, athletics, and the arts, producing numerous league, state, and national championships, Olympians, and recognized artists
Today, the school continues to honor its traditions of faith, dedication, and community through the biblical principles of Honor, Glory, and Love
Future campus plans include a performing arts center and center for innovation
In the spirit of the Gospel, Campus Ministry at Mater Dei High School exists to support the spiritual growth and moral development of our school community. Campus Ministry offers many opportunities for student involvement including weekday and all-school Mass, afterschool fellowship, Eucharistic Adoration, Bible study, pastoral care, community service/outreach, retreats and the Campus Ministry Club. Through experiences with Campus Ministry, Monarchs HONOR Mary,MaterDei,give GLORY toGod,andlivelivesof LOVE.
And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father
Mater Dei provides many opportunities for spiritual growth, including serving in worship and leading retreats that deepen faith through transformative
- Colossians 3:12-17
Service and Outreach
As part of Mater Dei's mission, service to others allows our students to live out their faith through spiritual and corporal works of mercy:
80 hours community service over four years
160 hour average per graduate
60K collective hours per graduating class
School-wide outreach for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Lent, and in response to local, national, or international needs
1K+ charities served by each graduating class
ACADEMICS
A Tradition of Academic Excellence
At Mater Dei, we believe that your child deserves an education that not only challenges the mind but also nurtures the heart and spirit. A Mater Dei education is a journey that ignites intellectual curiosity, cultivates critical thinking, and empowers students to navigate the challenges of an ever-changing world. With a curriculum grounded in rigorous core subjects like mathematics, sciences, humanities, and languages, we ensure that each student is not only well-prepared academically but also deeply enriched through the teachings of Christ. At Mater Dei, we’re not just educating students; we’re shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
Our Educators
Our educators are the heart of our institution. Faculty members are not only experts in their field but also deeply committed to the success and well-being of every student. Our faculty goes beyond traditional teaching, offering real-world experiences and creating opportunities that inspire students to explore their passions and realize their full potential. With a deep commitment to the success and unwavering care of every student, Mater Dei teachers deliver instruction that challenges, supports, and prepares our students to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
SUCCESS FOR
Center for Learning
The Center for Learning at Mater Dei High School works collaboratively with teachers, counselors, and parents to provide support for Monarchs to excel academically while helping to grow their self esteem and confidence in their abilities both in and out of the classroom.
TEAMS
Chris Canzoneri ‘26 - Baseball and Choir (St. Hedwig)
“A lot of people think being an artist and athlete means we are really busy, but I think finding the balance between the two of them is the real reward. Performing on stage in front of hundreds of people and then getting to play on the field is a blessing. Our coaches and our Choral department teachers are so talented and really work with us to make both happen!”
Charlotte De Leon ‘25 - Newspaper, ASB, Campus Ministry, Choir (St. Bonaventure)
“I chose Mater Dei because I was drawn to the vibrant student life and welcoming campus. I wanted to feel that sense of community and I loved how everyone was super friendly and they also have a strong faith in God.”
*FULL COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE REPORT AND DATA
September 3 – Admissions Application Opens
September 20 – Prospective Family Tailgate & Football Game
September 21 - Family Mass and Faith Fest
October 1 – Tuition Assistance Application Opens
October 9 – MD Open House #1
November 6 – Prospective Parent Meeting and Social
December 9 – Early Acceptance and Tuition Assistance Deadline
December 13 – Early Acceptance Notification
January 16 – MD Open House #2
January 18 – Entrance Exam #1 at MDHS
January 29 – Prospective Family Tailgate & Basketball Game
February 6 – Entrance Exam #2 at MDHS
February 22 – Entrance Exam #3 at MDHS
March 2 – Incoming Freshman Movie Night
March 12 – New Student and Parent Welcome Night
April 12 – Incoming Freshman Puzzle Dash
Next Steps
Start Your Application
Schedule a Tour or Shadow Day
Learn About Tuition Assistance
Tuition assistance is available on a first come first served basis through a separate application process. We strongly recommend that families observe the deadline and required documentation:
Copies of 2023 W-2 forms
Copies of 2023 Federal Tax forms and schedules
Copies of supporting documentation
Sofia De Lucia ’24, UCLA
“When I attended Open House as an 8th grade student from St. Hedwig School, I listened to a selection of incredibly genuine and unfailingly talented students and administrators who emphasized three values of a Mater Dei education: community, academics, and faith.
Immediately, I looked up at my mom, and we both knew that I would be a Monarch in the fall. My family chose Mater Dei because it cares for its students and teachers, provides countless opportunities to get involved, promotes a faith-filled environment and ultimately creates a community driven atmosphere where students can find comfort, growth, and success. Words cannot articulate what Mater Dei means to me; I have given them four years, and they have given me a family.”
