Bellarmine College Preparatory, located in San Jose, California, is a private, all-boys Jesuit secondary school with a rich history dating back to its founding on May 8, 1851. As the oldest Jesuit secondary school in California and the second-oldest west of the Mississippi River, Bellarmine has a longstanding tradition of academic excellence, spiritual development, and community service.
Campus and Facilities
Situated on a 27-acre campus at 960 West Hedding Street, Bellarmine offers state-of-the-art facilities to support its comprehensive educational programs. In 2011, the school completed the Lorry I. Lokey Academic Center, a significant addition made possible by a $15 million gift—the largest in the school’s history. This center houses over 27 classrooms, a faculty lounge, and the Craft-Malcolm Family Academic Resource Center, enhancing the learning environment for students.
Academic Programs
Bellarmine provides a rigorous college preparatory curriculum designed to challenge students and prepare them for higher education. The school offers a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, honors classes, and specialized programs to cater to diverse academic interests and abilities. Emphasizing the Jesuit tradition of educating the whole person, Bellarmine focuses on intellectual, physical, and spiritual development.
Spiritual Life and Community Service
As a Jesuit institution, Bellarmine places a strong emphasis on spiritual growth and community involvement. The school’s motto, “Men for and with Others,” reflects its commitment to fostering a sense of social responsibility among students. Through various service projects, retreats, and religious activities, students are encouraged to develop their faith and contribute positively to society.
Extracurricular Activities
Bellarmine offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including athletics, performing arts, and numerous clubs, providing students with opportunities to explore their interests and develop leadership skills. The school’s athletic teams compete in the West Catholic Athletic League (WCAL) across 13 sports, fostering teamwork and school spirit. Additionally, Bellarmine’s Speech and Debate Team has gained national recognition, with its policy debate team achieving top rankings.
Robotics Program
Bellarmine’s robotics team, known as Team 254: The Cheesy Poofs, has achieved remarkable success in the FIRST Robotics Competition. The team has secured multiple World Championships, demonstrating excellence in engineering, teamwork, and innovation.
Notable Alumni
Bellarmine boasts a distinguished list of alumni who have made significant contributions across various fields, including sports, politics, and the arts. Notable alumni include Olympians, professional athletes, mayors, and award-winning authors, reflecting the school’s impact on the broader community.
Transportation
The College Park Caltrain station, adjacent to the campus, has been integral to Bellarmine’s community, facilitating convenient transportation for students from various regions. Over 140 students utilize the train daily, underscoring the school’s accessibility and regional reach.
Conclusion
Bellarmine College Preparatory stands as a beacon of Jesuit education, dedicated to forming well-rounded individuals committed to intellectual excellence, spiritual growth, and service to others. With its rich history, comprehensive programs, and state-of-the-art facilities, Bellarmine continues to prepare young men to be leaders and compassionate contributors to society.