Shaping The Future: How Marian High School Merges Intellect With Faith

Marian High School, a Catholic college preparatory and coeducational secondary school, recently celebrated its 60th anniversary, but its commitment to fostering the growth of its students transcends time. Helmed by Principal John J. Ermilio, Marian is more than a school; it is a community, nestled within an environment comprising respect and accountability. The Framington-based institution touts a singular mission: develop the whole person —academically, emotionally, physically, socially and spiritually.

Patch: What are some exciting things happening at Marian High School this year?

Marian High School: This current school year, a partnership between Marian High School and Regis College kicked off with our Dual-Enrollment Program. It is a unique program in that the students take college courses as part of their Marian schedule at Marian High School. These courses are taught by Marian faculty, whose credentials and syllabi have been approved by the Regis College faculty committee. I’m proud to say that in this inaugural year, there are 14 students participating in this program earning 54 college credits, which are transferrable to any college or university. Thanks to this partnership, Marian is creating opportunities for students to reduce the cost of higher education.

Last year, we celebrated our 60th year on Union Avenue. Throughout the year, we’ve been reconnecting with alumni, family and friends reinforcing their commitment to Marian and the MetroWest.

Patch: How did you first get involved in education?

Marian High School: A history professor at The College of the Holy Cross my senior year recommended me as a writing tutor for this student writing workshop. That opportunity opened my eyes to the impact that teaching can have.

Patch: Reading is a basic tool for success in all subjects. If you had to recommend someone three books, what would they be?

Marian High School: Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Stride Toward Freedom.” It’s the only book that I have willingly read more than once. I recommend it for its inspirational value.

The next one, while technically a play, and people should see it rather than read it, Arthur Miller’s “Death of a Salesman.” I believe it’s one of the finest examples of human tension and angst.

“The Boys in the Boat” by Daniel James Brown. I like it because I am a rowing enthusiast, but more so, it is a wonderful expression of perseverance and camaraderie.

Patch: Can you tell us a little bit about Marian High School’s mission?

Marian High School: The mission of Marian High School is to develop the whole person; by that, I mean, academically, spiritually, socially, emotionally and physically. At Marian, we journey with young boys and girls as they progress through their high school education and graduate as young men and women.

Patch: What was the best advice on education that you have ever received?

Marian High School: The day before I started my freshmen year in college, my father sat me down and said, “Your Mother and I have given you a moral compass by which to live. Now that you’re going out on your own, we want you to live within that moral compass.”

Patch: Can you tell us about Marian High School's history?

Marian High School: Last year was Marian’s 60th year! It opened in September 1956, when Cardinal Cushing asked the Sisters of St. Joseph to staff the building, and for the next 60 years, there has been a Sisters of St. Joseph presence and spirit in the classrooms and hallways of Marian High School. In 2004, the Archdiocese of Boston severed ties with Marian. At that point, a governing Board of Trustees established Marian High School Inc. We are a private, independent, Catholic, coeducational high school.

Patch: How are you involved in the Framingham community?

Marian High School: I am a member of the Advisory Board at Saint Bridget School. I have spoken at Framingham Rotary Club meetings. Marian actively promotes and participates in Framingham activities, such as the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot, the MetroFest, and five times a year, Marian students visit the residents at Bethany Health Care to entertain them. Marian students also volunteer at Pine Street Inn. I also attend the quarterly meetings of the Middlesex District Attorney’s community-based justice program.

Patch: What three questions should parents ask when looking for the right educational experience for their child?

Marian High School: “Do the values and mission of the school match the values and mission we have as a family?” “When the students graduate, are they prepared for their college or university experience?” “Does the school offer the social experience via student body and extracurricular activities to foster growth of my child beyond the classroom?”

Patch: What makes Marian High School stand out from other schools?

Marian High School: The values that are taught at Marian in the classroom, in the hallways, in the cafeteria and on the playing field are those values which we, as a community and a nation, want in our future leaders. Many people say that college made me what I am, but high school — and especially Marian — made me who I am. I believe that Marian offers the total experience by which a student has the opportunities to advance their interests and skills, both in and outside the classroom. Because of our tight-knit community, Marian faculty and staff offer an individualized experience for the students and their families.

Patch: How can Patch readers contact you or otherwise learn more about Marian High School?

Marian High School: Anyone can contact me anytime at jermilio@marianhigh.org or at (508) 875-7646, or please call Director of Admissions Jaime Gaudet at (508) 875-7646, ext. 203, or email at admissions@marianhigh.org.

Photo credit: Marian High School