

Santa Monica International School - SMIS
Part of Santa Monica Group, Founded 2002
Updated July 2026
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.
Curriculum
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
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 NakaCEO/DirectorMs. 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 NemisPrincipal- Ms. Angeline FriasVice Principal
Ms. Ara FlakeSupervising Lead Teacher
Montessori