Stella Maris Academy
of Malolos Inc.

SMA Preschool has three levels:

• Nursery
• Kindergarten 1
• Kindergarten 2

At SMA, the Preschool program is structured as follows:

• Nursery: 2 and a half hours per day
• Kinder 1: 3 hours per day
• Kinder 2: 3 hours per day

These hours are designed to provide an age-appropriate learning experience, ensuring that children engage in educational activities while also having time for play and rest. The schedule supports their developmental needs and helps prepare them for the next steps in their educational journey.

• Nursery: Children must be at least 3 years old as of June 30.

• Kindergarten 1: Children must be 4 years old as of June 30.

• Kindergarten 2: Children should be 5 years old as of June 30.

This follows the DepEd guidelines for the age requirements based on the opening of the school year.

SMA is a Multiple Intelligences (M.I.)-focused school, meaning that the entire school, including our preschool, integrates Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences into our curriculum, we recognize that each child has unique strengths and learning styles, so our lessons are designed to engage and develop a variety of intelligences: linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and naturalistic.

Our curriculum is holistic and eclectic, combining elements from various child development philosophies, with a strong emphasis on the Montessori approach. This enables us to create developmentally appropriate strategies that are tailored to each child’s needs and interests.

Children in the 3 preschool levels are given equal opportunities to effectively promote their physical, social, emotional and intellectual development including values formation. The curriculum is enriched more specifically by the following:

• Active learning through play
• Art, music, and role-playing that encourage creativity and self-expression
• Exposure to various forms of literature that help build language and cognitive skills
• Montessori-inspired activities that foster independence and critical thinking
• Storytelling sessions that promote imagination and emotional development
• Life skills lessons to help children develop practical abilities and social skills
• Activities that cater to and nurture each child’s individual intelligences, allowing them to excel in their areas of strength

By embedding Multiple Intelligences throughout our lessons, SMA provides a dynamic and supportive learning environment that helps each child discover, develop, and express their full potential.

SMA Preschool offers a warm, welcoming, and harmonious learning environment where every child’s individuality is nurtured. We prioritize the emotional well-being of our students, creating a safe space for exploration, creativity, and growth.

We engage our children in various language and speaking activities such as reciting rhymes, poems, jazz chants, and dialogs. Development of character and desirable values are integrated in lessons and activities done everyday.

In addition, our preschool adheres to the Authentic Learning Program of SMA, where we engage our learners with real-life experiences that bring learning to life. For example, when teaching about animals, we take our learners on field trips to farms or pet shops, allowing them to observe and interact with animals firsthand. This hands-on approach helps solidify concepts and provides meaningful, memorable learning experiences.

To ensure personalized attention and foster meaningful interactions, class sizes are kept small, typically ranging from 10 to 15 students per class. This allows for an effective teacher-to-student ratio, ensuring that each child’s learning needs are met and that they receive the individualized support they deserve.

Yes, SMA values inclusivity in Preschool. We create a supportive environment where every child, regardless of background or ability, is welcomed and encouraged to participate in all activities. Our teachers are trained to cater to the diverse needs of our students, ensuring that each child receives the appropriate support to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Activities and lessons are designed to engage all learners in a way that accommodates their individual strengths and learning styles.

Enrollment is simple! You can visit our Admissions office or contact us through our website for the enrollment forms and process. We accept applications year-round, and we encourage early enrollment to secure a slot for your child.

Note: It must be noted that learners enrolling in different levels (Preschool, Elementary and Junior High School) must undergo evaluation/assessment by the Guidance Counselor for proper placement, believing that proper placement in the beginning ensures success in the end.