Santa Monica International School - SMIS logo

Santa Monica International School - SMIS

Part of Santa Monica Group, Founded 2002

Updated July 2026

to 6Ages

Curriculum

Languages

English flagEnglishJapanese flagJapanese

Santa Monica International School is an early childhood education provider located in Chatan-Cho, Okinawa, serving children from age one through kindergarten. It offers a balanced curriculum that incorporates Montessori, English, and Japanese teaching methods.

Teaching approach

The school is committed to providing a safe, developmentally appropriate environment that promotes social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth. It emphasizes the teaching of etiquette, manners, and good citizenship, while viewing the school as an extension of the family unit. The institution values professionalism and seeks to foster self-worth, independence, and a love of nature in its students.

Programmes

The school provides early childhood education programmes for children ranging from one year old through kindergarten, including specific tracks for Preschool, Pre-K, and Kindergarten. The curriculum is designed to be balanced and progressive, integrating Montessori principles alongside English and Japanese language instruction. Additionally, the school offers extra-curricular activities and a summer programme.

Outcomes

The school aims to develop students into effective communicators, critical thinkers, and motivated, productive learners. It also focuses on fostering literacy in educational and world thinking, as well as preparing children to be constructive community members. The ultimate goal is for students to graduate better educated, socially adapted, and prepared to act as world-class citizens.

Student support

EAL support
Unknown
Learning support
Unknown

Tuition & fees

No published fee schedule was found for this school.

Admissions

The admissions process requires parents to schedule an in-person tour of the school, which are conducted Monday through Friday between 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM. Following the tour, parents must complete an application form provided in an information packet and pay the required fees. The school office then confirms the child's official start date.

  • Ms. Yumiko Naka
    Ms. Yumiko NakaCEO/Director

    Ms. Naka started the school in 2002 in a small rented room with the goal of providing the best education for her daughters and the children of Okinawa. She focuses on teaching manners, etiquette, and how to be world-class citizens.

  • Ms. Grace Nemis
    Ms. Grace NemisPrincipal
  • Ms. Angeline FriasVice Principal
  • Ms. Ara Flake
    Ms. Ara FlakeSupervising Lead Teacher