Marmion Academy’s Co-Educational Transition
Hugo Saltijeral had a profound moment watching his daughter take part in the After-School Formation at Marmion Academy in Aurora. This event, a tradition at Marmion, resembles a parade for students in the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, or JROTC. Saltijeral saw his daughter, Peyton, dressed in her uniform for the first time alongside her fellow Cadets, similar to his experience and those of his two sons at the high school.
“It was a bit overwhelming,” Saltijeral, 47, commented. Both he and Peyton never imagined this could happen until recently. Marmion Academy, formerly an all-boys school, welcomed young women this school year, following extensive discussions and preparations including upgrades to facilities, new sports teams for girls, and more.
Years of notable history mark Marmion Academy, once a boarding school designated a military academy by the U.S. War Department in the 1930s, with compulsory JROTC enrollment for all students. Marmion transitioned across different locations, consolidating all students at Butterfield Road facility in 1971, and revamping its educational programs over the years. The residential program ended in 2003, turning the school solely into a day institution.
With the decision to transition to a co-educational model announced in late 2024 for the 2026-27 school year, the move was not merely based on enrollment. Similar changes at nearby schools contributed to Marmion’s decision. Although the school faced enrollment declines—reaching 415 students this year from a peak of around 525—the addition of 41 female students, including new freshmen and transfers, contributed to a slight increase.
The transition was marked by thoughtful updates. The school improved facilities with new locker rooms and bathrooms, introduced new uniforms for girls, and established various sports options aligned with the school year seasons.
The ceremony of “Clap-In” welcomed female students at the beginning of the school year, acknowledging the significant change. Freshman and sophomore core classes remain single-sex, while other courses and extracurricular activities are mixed.
The historic transition also affects nearby Rosary College Prep, the remaining single-sex school that traditionally shared activities with Marmion but started hosting its own homecoming.
Peyton Saltijeral was encouraged to join Marmion by the news of the change, feeling connected to her father’s and brothers’ experiences. Familiar with the small school environment, Peyton joined the volleyball team, participates in JROTC, and plans to engage in more sports.
Looking forward, the school aims to assess the transition’s success through surveys and proactive measures while continuing facility improvements. Revitalizing spiritual and mentorship frameworks parallel the broader changes at Marmion.