St. Mary's Academy

About Us

Gathering on the St. Mary's Academy quad for the May crowning of the statue of Mary

St. Mary’s Academy is Denver’s premier independent, Catholic coeducational PreK-8 and all-girls High School that was established in 1864 by the Sisters of Loretto. It continues to be a forward-thinking educational leader focused on values-based, purpose-driven education with rigorous academics, integrated service learning, outstanding faculty, and a commitment to individualized attention and developing the whole student.  

A Close-Knit Community Guided by Our Loretto School Values

St. Mary's Academy is an inclusive community that welcomes students of every culture, religious tradition, and economic background.  It was started by the Sisters of Loretto, a Catholic-based community that strives to bring the healing Spirit of God into our world. We emphasize understanding and appreciation of different perspectives. We focus on respect and how we treat each other – to love inclusively and unconditionally with compassion. This allows for a deeper understanding of others and of one's own convictions in an increasingly complex, multicultural and multi-religious world. Our Loretto School Values of faith, community, justice, and respect guide us in our work.

We provide a values-based, academically strong education in a positive, safe and nurturing environment for grades PK-12. 

We offer individualized attention and encourage strong moral and character development in pursuit of the common good.

We inspire leaders and change agents, teaching students how to think and problem solve in the spirit of teamwork and collaboration to prepare them for success in an ever-changing world.

30%

of our student population is diverse (based on race and ethnicity)

$2 million

in financial aid and merit scholarships annually

10%

of faculty are SMA alumnae

84%

of graduates from the last four years received at least one merit-based scholarship