Confident, Connected, Empowered: Why Girls Thrive at Merion Mercy

When choosing a high school, families ask important questions: Will my daughter feel supported? Will she be challenged? Will she be known and empowered to lead with confidence and compassion? At Merion Mercy Academy, we are proud that the answer is a resounding yes—and a recent global study backs that up.

A 2023–2024 report by the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools, in partnership with Challenge Success (a nonprofit affiliated with Stanford University), surveyed over 30,000 girls at all-girls schools worldwide. The findings affirm what we live every day at Merion Mercy: girls thrive in an environment where they are encouraged, inspired, and deeply connected.

A Community Where Girls Belong

According to the study, 88% of girls in girls’ schools have a peer to turn to with a personal problem, and 69% have a trusted adult at school. These strong relationships are more than reassuring—they are essential. Girls who feel supported report higher confidence in themselves and a greater ability to manage stress.

At Merion Mercy, connection is part of our culture. One student shared:

"I am excited to go to school every day to see my friends, and learn new things in my classes from my very supportive and fun-loving teachers." – Maria S.

That sense of joy and support is echoed by so many in our community.

“It is because of my classmates, friends, and teachers that I have grown into the person I am today. I cannot thank them enough for everything they have done for me.” – Sarah D.

More Than Just “Doing School”

In today's high-pressure academic environment, many students fall into the trap of “doing school”—checking boxes without finding real meaning or joy in their learning. But at Merion Mercy, we help students go deeper.

The study found that girls in all-girls schools report higher levels of engagement—not just working hard, but finding their learning purposeful, interesting, and empowering. These students are more likely to ask questions, express their opinions, and shape their own education.

That’s exactly what we foster at Merion Mercy—an academic experience where girls build confidence and take ownership of their learning, supported by teachers who know and care for them.

Rooted in Purpose, Inspired by Mercy

What makes girls’ schools—and Merion Mercy in particular—so impactful isn’t just structure or tradition. It’s intention. At Merion, every decision is grounded in our mission and values. We believe in the power of educating young women to lead with purpose, guided by Mercy values.

“What I will miss most about Merion are the bonds with my friends, the guidance from my teachers, and the sense of sisterhood. I truly couldn’t have asked for a better four years.” – Gianna E.

That sense of sisterhood is what sets Merion apart. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or on the stage, students know they belong—and they lift one another up.

“I will miss the unique comfort and happiness that MMA provided me with.” – Grace N.

The Merion Mercy Difference

The research is clear: when girls learn together, they thrive together. And at Merion Mercy Academy, they do so in a community that supports the whole girl—academically, emotionally, spiritually, and socially.