Quick Answer for Busy Parents
Launched in fall 2017, Archbishop Riordan’s House System places every student in one of four Houses, Cana, Bolts, Pilar, or Russi, for all four years. Students from every grade meet in small R-Time groups four days a week, and Houses earn points through academics, competitions, service, citizenship, leadership, and event attendance toward the Chaminade Cup.
What Is the House System?
Riordan designed the House System to further its Marianist mission by developing student leaders, providing mentorship, and strengthening relationships between students and faculty. It also builds school spirit through friendly competition all year. Because each House includes students from all four grades, a freshman walks in with built-in mentors and a ready-made community, which matters even more now that Riordan is co-ed and its student body comes from across the Bay Area and the world.
Meet the Four Houses
| House | Color | Named For |
| Cana | Red | The wedding at Cana, scene of Jesus’ first miracle and the source of the Marianist motto |
| Bolts | Orange | Bro. Bill Bolts, SM ’53, a member of Riordan’s first class to attend all four years |
| Pilar | Blue | Our Lady of the Pillar, where Blessed Chaminade was inspired to found the Society of Mary |
| Russi | Green | Fr. Jack Russi, SM, Class of 1957, a beloved Marianist educator |
Wondering How Your Child Would Fit at Riordan?
We help families understand school culture and build applications that show real fit.
R-Time, Leadership, and the Chaminade Cup
R-Time
Led by R-Time teachers and student leaders, each House meets in small groups of 25 to 30 students from all grades for 15 minutes, four days a week, with activities and practical advice for making the most of high school.
Student Parliament
Students can take on leadership roles through Student Parliament, which organizes House events throughout the year.
The Chaminade Cup
Houses compete in academic, athletic, and team-building events, including Frosh Olympics, House Games, the Senior Gauntlet, and the spring Crusader Games, for the Chaminade Cup, a perpetual award for the House with the most cumulative points. Recent winners include Russi (2025–26), Pilar (2024–25), and Cana (2021–22 through 2023–24).
How the House System Benefits Students
- Mentorship across grades: Underclassmen learn the ropes from upperclassmen, which makes adjusting to high school easier.
- Real leadership: Student Parliament and R-Time leadership give students responsibility early.
- Faculty connection: Teachers and House provincials guide each House, building closer student-faculty relationships.
- Year-round spirit: Rallies, carnivals, House Games, and Cultural Night keep the community engaged.
Showing Fit in Your Riordan Application
A student who would thrive in the House System, one who enjoys community, mentorship, and a little friendly competition, can show that in their personal statement. We help families bring those qualities forward naturally.
Let’s Plan Your Riordan Application
Talk with an advisor about statements, the HSPT, and timing.