Notre Dame High School

Notre Dame High School is a Catholic, college preparatory school sponsored by the Congregation of Holy Cross. It is dedicated to educating the hearts and minds of a diverse student body, fostering spiritual, intellectual, and social growth. The school emphasizes the dignity of all persons, ethical decision-making, and a commitment to serving the evolving needs of the world.

The school offers a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum that meets high accreditation standards. Core departments include Communications, Computer Science & Engineering, English, Mathematics, Modern and Classical Languages, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Theology, and Visual and Performing Arts. Graduation requirements include four years of English and Religious Studies, three and a half years of Social Studies, three years of Mathematics and Science, two years of foreign language, one year of physical education, one year of visual/performing arts, and one semester of computer science.

The school is a college preparatory institution with 96% of graduates matriculating to two- and four-year colleges. Students demonstrate high academic engagement, with 99% taking at least one AP exam, and many achieving membership in the California Scholastic Federation and the National Honor Society. Additionally, students contribute significantly to the community, completing nearly 58,000 hours of service annually.

The school provides counseling services, including academic and college counseling, to support student development. A learning specialist is available to assist students, and the counseling department works to ensure students are prepared for post-secondary pursuits.

The school accepts applications for incoming freshmen and transfer students. The admissions process includes various outreach events such as open houses, 8th-grade visit days, application workshops, and HSPT prep sessions. Families may apply for financial aid through the Clarity platform, with decisions for incoming students typically communicated in March.

The academic year begins in August with a welcome day and family orientation. The school operates on a bell/block schedule, and the calendar includes key events such as final exams, honors nights, and various student activities. Summer programs, known as Summer Knights, are also available.

The campus, located in Sherman Oaks, includes the Hampton Science Center, which supports STEM excellence. The school provides various facilities for its academic and co-curricular programs, including a library, technology resources, and spaces for visual and performing arts, such as theatre, band, music, and dance studios. Athletic facilities support a wide range of sports programs.

Students participate in over 100 clubs and activities, including student government (ASB), debate, and the Moreau Mentors program. The school features award-winning robotics, student publications, and television and film production. Athletics are a significant component of student life, supported by a dedicated athletics department and facilities.