Seneca Academy
Secular
Updated July 2026
IB PYP
Seneca Academy is an independent school serving students from preschool through fifth grade, fully authorized as an International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program (PYP) World School.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
Seneca Academy is committed to preserving the wonder of childhood by fostering natural curiosity and igniting a love of learning. It utilizes a collaborative, inquiry-based approach that encourages students to explore, create, and question concepts while building a strong foundation of basic knowledge.
Programmes
The school offers a transdisciplinary IB Primary Years Program (PYP) for students aged 3 to 12, which includes a structured Program of Inquiry consisting of six-week units of study. The academic offering spans preschool for 2- to 4-year-olds—including a Parent’s Day Out program for 2-year-olds—and an elementary program for grades K-5. The curriculum emphasizes high-level thinking and hands-on activities across a broad range of subjects.
Outcomes
The school aims to develop globally aware citizens who are compassionate and confident problem-solvers. Students are taught to think deeply, communicate effectively, and interact positively, with a focus on becoming independent and socially responsible individuals.
Student support
Learning support
The school employs a dedicated Director of Learning Support to oversee the needs of its students. The faculty is composed of experienced educators who are committed to best practices and ongoing professional development.
Frequently asked questions(4)
- What curriculum does Seneca Academy offer?
- Seneca Academy offers IB PYP.
- What accreditations does Seneca Academy hold?
- Seneca Academy holds accreditations including IB.
- Is Seneca Academy co-educational?
- Seneca Academy is a co-ed school.
- Where is Seneca Academy located?
- Seneca Academy is an international school in Germantown, United States.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
Seneca Academy maintains a rolling admissions process for its preschool and elementary programs. Prospective families are encouraged to contact the school office or submit an inquiry form to schedule a tour and learn more about the application process.
Calendar
The academic year typically runs from early September through early June. The school provides a calendar of events and schedules, including opportunities for tours and open houses.
Facilities
About the campus
The campus is located on 6 ½ acres in Darnestown, Maryland, and features a National Wildlife Federation Certified Schoolyard Habitat that serves as an outdoor classroom. The school environment includes dedicated spaces for learning activities, with student work and projects frequently displayed throughout the building.
Co-curriculars
Students participate in a variety of extension curricula, including music, Spanish, and physical education. The school also offers before and after-school programs, as well as a summer program for children ranging from rising threes through rising sixth graders.
- Karen TylerHead of School
Karen Tyler holds a B.S. in Elementary Education and an M.Ed. in Reading from Edinboro University, as well as an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She serves as the Head of School.
- Erin ComaskeyAssistant Head of School
Erin Comaskey holds a B.S. in Early Childhood Education/English from The College of New Jersey, an M.A. in Educational Psychology from McGill University, and an Ed.D. in Entrepreneurial Leadership from Johns Hopkins University. She serves as the Assistant Head of School.
- Priscella CelentanoDirector of Admissions and Communications
Priscella Celentano is a graduate of the University of Connecticut and serves as the Director of Admissions and Communications.
- Melissa KarasekDirector of Learning Support
Melissa Karasek holds a B.A. in English from George Washington University and serves as the Director of Learning Support.
- Milana LevitDirector of Business Operations
Milana Levit holds a B.S.S. in Economics and Finance from ISM University (Lithuania) and an M. in International Business Management and Strategic Marketing from BI Norwegian Business School (Norway). She serves as the Director of Business Operations.
- Sue Ann SalimbenePreschool Director/Prekindergarten 4s Teacher
Sue Ann Salimbene holds a B.A. in Business and Economics from Marymount College. She serves as the Preschool Director and a Prekindergarten 4s Teacher.