According to the Cory-Merrill Neighborhood Association, Denver Public Schools built Cory Elementary and Merrill Junior High on farmland donated by Mr. Armstrong in the late 1940s. Both schools were named for influential educators in Denver Public Schools: John J. Cory and Louise A. Merrill. Louise was known for being a true pioneer of junior high school education serving as a teacher and principal in Denver.
Merrill Middle School opened as a Junior High in 1953. Throughout Merrill’s history, student advocacy and celebration of arts and academics have been ever present.
In 1999, Merrill became the first middle school with a dedicated Newcomer Program welcoming and serving students from all around the world. On average, Merrill has over 30 different languages spoken and over 50 countries represented in our student population. Our greatest celebration and strength is our diversity.
Merrill is also home to a fantastic Multi-Intensive Severe Program where students with varying health and cognitive needs are educated through community experiences all over the greater Denver Metro area. Merrill Middle School has been nationally recognized for inclusionary practices, anti-bullying and an accepting student and adult culture.
From real-world and engaging Project-Based Learning, gifted and talented programming, additional mental health staff, to student interests driving our clubs/sports and robust elective offerings, we believe in supporting the whole child. Our dedicated and caring staff are connected to our mission and vision of supporting every individual. Each community member comes with their own unique brilliance, and we are grateful for the entire Merrill #FAMILY.