Hugo Saltijeral experienced a significant moment watching his daughter participate in her first After-School Formation at Marmion Academy in Aurora. This event, a tradition for students in the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC), allowed Saltijeral to see his daughter, Peyton, walk in uniform alongside fellow cadets. This was a moment he shared with his two sons when they attended the same school.

“It was a little overwhelming,” Saltijeral said about seeing his daughter in this role, a scenario he once thought unlikely. Marmion Academy recently allowed girls into its student body, transforming from an all-boys school for the first time this school year. This transition followed extensive discussions and over a year of preparation, which included facility modifications and the addition of sports teams for girls.

As the school year progressed, students and staff adapted to the changes. Marmion Academy has a rich history in Aurora, nearly a century old. The school, initially a boarding school, became a recognized military academy in the 1930s and later transitioned through various changes. In 1994, it introduced a new Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) program, complementing JROTC and leading to its original name, Marmion Academy.

In late 2024, Marmion announced the transition to a co-educational model, welcoming girls in the 2026-27 school year. Rev. Joel Rippinger, abbot of Marmion Abbey, explained that this decision aimed to maintain the school’s academic integrity and sustain its programs and infrastructure. Despite some initial resistance from alumni, the school saw general agreement on this transition.

Along with opening admission to girls, the school updated facilities and offered sports like swimming, volleyball, and soccer. As new female students joined, they participated in the traditional “Clap-In” to start the school year. The students quickly adapted, embracing their new environment and roles.

Freshman and sophomore classes remain single-sex for core subjects, while other activities and courses are co-ed. Plans are in place to integrate upperclassmen girls into co-ed classes as they reach those grades. A significant portion, about 80%, of the new female students participate in sports, a reflection of their engagement and enthusiasm.

This transition also impacts nearby Rosary College Prep, an all-girls school, which traditionally participated in joint activities with Marmion. As Marmion evolves, Rosary plans to host its own homecoming festivities.

New students like Peyton Saltijeral are eagerly participating in the transition. Her enrollment is particularly meaningful, as her father and brothers also attended Marmion. Peyton is already active in JROTC and looks forward to contributing as a leader.

As the school moves forward, it plans to assess the effectiveness of the co-educational model and make necessary facility upgrades. Rippinger sees this evolution as part of the school’s longstanding tradition of adaptation and believes it will strengthen Marmion’s community and educational offerings.