Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Catholic High School in San Francisco
Archbishop Riordan High School, an Archdiocesan Catholic institution rooted in the Marianist tradition, has dedicated itself to nurturing young leaders through a transformative educational experience. Since our founding, we have combined rigorous college preparatory academics with a commitment to Catholic Marianist values of faith, community, inclusivity, service, and justice. Our holistic approach extends beyond the classroom through a dynamic house system, competitive athletics, and diverse co-curricular activities designed to cultivate character and leadership. With a student-faculty ratio of 11:1, our experienced educators provide personalized support, ensuring 99% of graduates pursue higher education.Recognized for academic excellence, we offer 13 advanced STEM courses, nationally acclaimed learning support programs, and unique four-year honors tracks in engineering, biomedical sciences, and business. Our boarding program, the only co-ed option in San Francisco, serves students from 18 countries, fostering global perspectives while maintaining strong local community ties. Through strategic partnerships and continuous innovation, we prepare students to excel in college and beyond while upholding our mission to develop compassionate, principled leaders.
Services
College Preparatory Curriculum
Boarding Program
STEM Courses
Athletics
Performing Arts
Details
- Year established: 1950
Highlights and features
- We offer a 11:1 student-faculty ratio with 80% of teachers having 5-15 years' experience
- Our four-year honors engineering program prepares students for STEM careers
- We provide nationally recognized learning support for diverse learners
- Our boarding program serves students from 18 countries fostering global perspectives
- We maintain 70 athletic championships with 40 competitive teams
Associations and certifications
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
- Western Catholic Educational Association
- The Association of Boarding Schools
What people say
Strong academics
Caring faculty
Excellent college prep
Vibrant community
Diverse programs
Services
College Preparatory Curriculum
Our rigorous college preparatory curriculum exceeds University of California requirements, offering 30+ AP and honors classes. Students gain university-level experience through partnerships with City College of San Francisco. The program develops critical thinking and prepares 99% of graduates for college success.
Boarding Program
As San Francisco's only co-ed boarding program, we provide structured academic and personal growth opportunities. Our experienced staff fosters global leadership through cultural exchange and comprehensive support. Students benefit from academic tutoring, athletic programs, and spiritual development in a safe, nurturing environment.
STEM Courses
Our 13 advanced STEM courses include engineering, biomedical sciences, and computer science. Students engage in hands-on learning through modern labs and real-world projects. The program prepares students for STEM careers with a focus on innovation and technical excellence.
Athletics
With 40 teams across 12 sports, our athletics program emphasizes sportsmanship and character development. Certified coaches guide students in building teamwork and leadership skills. The program has earned 70 championships while maintaining academic excellence.
Performing Arts
Our performing arts program includes theater, music, and dance with professional-grade facilities. Students develop creative expression through award-winning band programs and theatrical productions. The curriculum integrates technical skills with artistic development for comprehensive arts education.
People
Danny Curtin
Vice President of Enrollment & Strategy
A 2008 alumnus with extensive experience in Catholic education leadership, Danny oversees admissions strategy and institutional planning. He focuses on expanding access to Marianist education while maintaining academic excellence.
David Lin
Director of Boarding
Class of 1999 graduate David leads our residential program, combining personal experience with professional expertise. He develops global leadership programs and ensures cultural competency in our international student community.
Jennifer Curtin
Dean of Students
As Dean of Students and Head Girls Volleyball Coach, Jennifer combines academic oversight with student development. She emphasizes character building through athletics and community engagement programs.
Anne Seppi
Director of Annual Giving
Anne manages philanthropy initiatives that support financial aid and program development. With over a decade of experience in Catholic education fundraising, she ensures accessibility and program excellence through donor relations.
Joey Curtin
Director of Alumni Relations
2001 graduate Joey connects alumni with current students through mentorship programs. He builds community partnerships and leads the boys basketball program while maintaining institutional traditions.
Questions
What makes Riordan's education unique?
Our Catholic Marianist values combine with rigorous academics and a house system to develop character alongside college readiness. We offer specialized four-year programs in STEM and business fields.
Do you offer financial assistance?
Yes, we provide need-based financial aid and scholarships through partner organizations. Approximately 40% of students receive some form of tuition assistance.
What boarding facilities are available?
Our co-ed boarding program includes modern dormitories, study lounges, and recreational spaces. Residents participate in structured academic support and cultural exchange programs.
How do you support student athletes?
We offer 40 teams across 12 sports with certified coaches and state-of-the-art facilities. Our athletics program emphasizes sportsmanship, leadership, and academic balance.
What college preparation resources exist?
Beyond our UC-approved curriculum, we provide college counseling, AP exam preparation, and partnerships with local universities for dual enrollment opportunities.
Are there arts programs available?
Yes, we offer comprehensive performing and visual arts programs including theater, music ensembles, and digital media courses with professional-grade facilities.
Videos