Maegan Levy has owned Milagro Uniforms on West 9th Street since 2021 and the fall season is one of her favorite times of year. “I always looked forward to that back to school season, it was always a mad dash, but I always had at least one kid every year that was just over the top excited”, said Levy.
She’s getting ready for another busy time, First Communion season, but this may be her last. According to Levy, “Erie Catholic has made the decision to change their uniforms, to go to one uniform over all five of their grade school campuses and I was not chosen. So there is really no reason for me to stay open. I do also sell First Communion apparel and Baptism and sacramental goods, but the uniforms were the main driver of the business.”
The Erie Catholic School System released the following statement:
“As a Catholic school system, we are called to foster unity, solidarity, and the dignity of every child entrusted to our care. A unified uniform reinforces these principles by reminding our students—and our broader community—that we are one Catholic family, grounded in shared mission and values. A common uniform reduces distractions and visible inequities, allowing students to be known not by what they wear but by their character, faith, and contributions to our school community. With five campuses and one mission, our uniform is a simple but powerful expression of who we are: united in faith, committed to excellence, and rooted in the belief that all children are equal in dignity and worth”, Travis Washko, President of Erie Catholic School System
Levy said one of her favorite parts of owning the business was interacting with her customers and she will miss that. “Online doesn’t have the services that in-person allows you to have”, said Levy.
Not only will Levy be experiencing this change as a business owner, but a parent too, “I’m disappointed as the only, local retailer that services Erie Catholic, I was saddened by the decision. I also have three children that are in the school system so I’m on both sides, I know what it’s going to be like for parents coming ahead and I know what it’s like as a business owner.”
Levy believes the next year will be a transition year for the school uniforms, so she plans to liquidate all her merchandise until it’s time to close.