A few weeks ago, Hugo Saltijeral watched his daughter participate in her first After-School Formation at Marmion Academy, Aurora. This event is a cherished tradition for students involved in the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program. Hugo Saltijeral observed his daughter, Peyton, walking in uniform alongside fellow Cadets. It was a moment he never thought would be possible until now.
Marmion Academy, a historically all-boys school, opened its doors to female students at the start of this school year. This change followed over a year of preparation, including facility updates and the addition of new sports teams for girls.
The Catholic high school has a nearly century-long history in Aurora. Originally a boarding school, it became Marmion Military Academy in the 1930s when designated a military academy by the U.S. War Department. The school experienced significant changes over the decades, including shifting locations and altering its educational programs.
In 1994, Marmion students could choose between the JROTC and the Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) program. The residential program ended in 2003. These decisions were made thoughtfully, considering future prospects.
In late 2024, Marmion announced its transition to a co-educational model. It aimed to maintain academic integrity and sustain its programs. With enrollment numbers around 525 before the pandemic, the school noted a drop to 415 students this year. Among them, 41 are female, including both new freshmen and sophomore transfers.
Female students have long been teachers at the school, enhancing the culture. This transition received initial hesitation but ultimately found consensus. School facilities were updated, including new locker rooms and bathrooms, along with plans for various sports teams.
The change also means adjustments for Rosary College Prep, an all-girls Catholic school nearby. Despite traditional collaborations between the schools, Rosary will independently host its first homecoming week in October.
Peyton Saltijeral decided to attend Marmion after hearing about the transition. A part of JROTC and the volleyball team, she sees it as a new opportunity. Her father emphasized the importance of embracing the school’s challenges.
Marmion plans to assess the effectiveness of its co-ed model. Facilities require updates to maintain high standards amidst competitive educational landscapes. Additionally, the school introduced frameworks for spiritual development and mentorship, reflecting its Benedictine tradition.
These adjustments are essential for the school’s longevity. Marmion’s adaptability is key to its continued success, blending tradition with necessary changes.