Background Statement
In August of 1864, St. Mary's Academy for girls opened with 20 students. In June of 1875, St. Mary's Academy issued the first high school diploma granted in the Colorado Territory to Miss Jessie Forshee. This 2026-2027 school year, we celebrate 162 consecutive years of academic excellence.
St. Mary's Academy is organized into three schools: Lower School (co-ed PreSchool through grade 5), Middle School (co-ed grades 6-8), and High School (all girls, grades 9-12). St. Mary's Academy is composed of students from all religious, ethnic, and economic backgrounds. St. Mary’s Academy offers approximately $2.4 million in need-based tuition assistance for children in grades Kindergarten through High School. Approximately 20% of our student body receives financial aid.
In our pursuit of excellence, St. Mary's Academy holds membership in professional organizations. We are a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and are accredited by the Association of Colorado Independent Schools (ACIS). The High School is a member of the National Coalition of Girls Schools.