Stella Maris Academy

This is a wonderful school. The principal, the teachers and the community is great. It is a true gift to be part of this school. My son is a new student and is extremely happy. He is enjoying learning again, and is very motivated. The teachers are so considerate,professional, caring, helpful and challenge their students to their fullest potential. The teachers are AMAZING! Not to mention that they all have degrees, credentials, masters, etc. etc.. You do not hear teachers yell at their students. The classes are super well structured and the discipline and respect is amazing as well as the academics. The way students learn is very unique. You feel at peace here. The social skills curriculum is superb also. Almost like a finishing school were students learn to interact in the outside world. They are taught to be confident, respectful and strong individuals, as well as how to behave in different circumstances. Very supportive, humble and caring school environment.
--Submitted by a parent

No leadership from the church or Pastor. No connection to the Church except for the standard Catholic curriculum. The 5th Grade teacher is Amazing!
--Submitted by a parent

Have you seen the short bios on the teachers here? Do you notice how many of them have Master's Degrees, certifications, etc? The teachers are well-qualified, and most of them have children who went to SMA. The community of parents are wonderful. The children are brought up in a close knit, respectful, and wholesome way. The classes are intimate and the children respect and enjoy each others differences.
--Submitted by a parent

Because it's a smaller size school (only one class per grade), there is a huge sense of community and responsibility, the teachers know your kids before they reach the grade they teach and therefore know how to challenge them to the top of their potential.
--Submitted by a parent

This is a fantastic school. My child switched halfway through the year from public school and has been really enjoying it there. The teachers are kind and supportive, and they motivate their students to do their best.
--Submitted by a parent

A wonderful community within La Jolla where kids can grow and learn in a great environment. Uniquely personal and with strong academics.
--Submitted by a parent

Such a hidden gem! Small class sizes, highly credentialed and degreed staff, an environment valuing achievement.... we love this school. The spanish, art and P.E. programs are incredible as well, especially since these have been cut at some area schools. Very diverse and inclusive as well, and set right in the village of La Jolla with all it's natural beauty and cultural resources.
--Submitted by a parent

SMA is largely underrated in the community. With all SMA has to offer, it is surprising the tuition is so low. The teachers are extremely professional and knowledgeable. The students are taught to be self-directed learners and kind people. My 2 daughters are thriving!! I highly recommend SMA!
--Submitted by a parent

Blue Ribbon school that is a wonderful place for kids. The curriculum is great, and the dedication and caring cannot be matched.
--Submitted by a parent

We looked at many other private schools, catholic and secular, and decided on SMA for our two children because of the very warm and supportive environment for the students and families. It is a small school so the children get to kmow all the kids in the different grades which has proven to be very enriching for our children. Academically it is challenging and the teachers have high expectations of their students. As in all schools, some teachers are more challenging than others. When the kids start at SMA from a young age, they become accustomed quickly to the expectations and thrive. I did not attned catholic school so was a little skepitcal about the reliogion but is has been a blessing for our family. Along with religion, daily the students learn about moral vaules, how to treat others and how to help others in need who are less forunate.
--Submitted by a parent