Business Details
32 Years
experience
International Baccalaureate School in Aliso Viejo
At St Mary's School, we are driven by our mission of 'World-Sized Hearts. World-Class Minds.' Our dedicated faculty and staff cultivate an environment where students develop intellectual curiosity and emotional intelligence. Through the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, we nurture inquirers who ask 'what' and 'why' to understand their role in shaping the 'how.' Our rigorous academic programs from Early Education through Grade 8 emphasize whole-child development, critical thinking, and global citizenship. With a 30-year legacy as Orange County's only independent IB school, we prepare students to become compassionate leaders who positively impact their communities.Our supportive parent community and values-based education create a collaborative ecosystem focused on wonder, discovery, and responsible stewardship. By integrating arts, athletics, and field studies, we ensure students gain practical experience connecting classroom learning to real-world challenges. Our graduates emerge as confident, purpose-driven individuals equipped to excel in top-tier high schools and universities.
Services
Early Education Program
Lower School Curriculum
Middle School Program
IB Primary Years Programme
IB Middle Years Programme
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- Only independent IB school in Orange County with Primary & Middle Years Programmes
- 30-year legacy of academic excellence and college preparatory success
- Inquiry-based learning fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Diverse community representing 20+ languages and 10+ religions
- Integrated arts, athletics, and field studies for holistic development
Associations and certifications
- International Baccalaureate (IB)
Services
IB Primary Years Programme
Our IB Primary Years Programme cultivates foundational inquiry skills through interdisciplinary learning. Students engage in hands-on exploration while developing literacy, numeracy, and global awareness. The curriculum emphasizes character development and collaborative problem-solving to build essential academic and social foundations.
Middle School Program
The Middle School IB MYP program challenges students with rigorous academics and real-world applications. Through project-based learning, students connect classroom concepts to global issues while developing critical thinking and leadership skills in a supportive environment.
Field Study Program
Our field studies transform theoretical knowledge into practical understanding through immersive experiences. Students explore historical sites, conduct environmental research, and engage with cultural institutions to deepen their academic comprehension through direct observation.
Arts Programme
The arts curriculum provides safe spaces for creative expression through visual arts, performing arts, and Falcon Theatre Company. Students develop technical skills while building confidence through collaborative projects and public performances.
Athletics Program
Our athletics program builds character through competitive sports while emphasizing skill development and teamwork. Students participate in various sports programs that promote physical fitness, sportsmanship, and lifelong healthy habits.
Questions
What educational programs does St. Mary's School offer?
We offer International Baccalaureate programs from Early Education through Grade 8, including specialized arts, athletics, and field study components.
Is St. Mary's School accredited?
We are an officially authorized International Baccalaureate World School, the only independent IB institution in Orange County.
What makes St. Mary's different from other schools?
Our unique combination of IB curriculum, character development, and experiential learning creates well-rounded global citizens with college-ready skills.
What extracurricular opportunities are available?
We provide performing and visual arts programs, competitive athletics, Falcon Theatre Company, and immersive field study experiences.
How does the school support student development?
Our inquiry-based approach nurtures curiosity, critical thinking, and social responsibility through personalized learning and community engagement.
What is the student-teacher ratio?
We maintain small class sizes with 155 faculty members serving 720 students across our 6.25-acre campus.
Reviews (4)
Jodie M.
Aug 31, 2021
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Words can't explain how much we love St Mary's and it's amazing teachers, staff and families. I was shocked to read some of the reviews, I genuinely felt like they were speaking about another school. Our daughter has attended St Mary's for 2.5yrs, through the craziness of 2020, and we couldn't be happier! The teachers truly care about their students, they nurture and work with them to be the best they can be. 2020 was such a tough year and they did an incredible job with online classes and then in person school as soon as possible. The communication was excellent throughout
A. B.
Jul 18, 2020
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My child went to school here, and it was a horrible experience. Though we met a few nice families, it is all about money and status. The staff were lying and cheating and put money before kids. Even when a child bullied another child he was never reprimanded because of parental donations. If you want a school to help instill real value in your child, this is NOT the place. ... for more details and a great summary read NATASHA P's review.. she was lucky to avoid this train wreck.
Jill M.
May 11, 2020
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Wonderful school, great community. The teachers care. The administration is phenomenal. Can't say enough good things.
M. S.
May 10, 2019
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We've been at St. Mary's for seven years and couldn't be happier. Our daughter started in Kindergarten and is now finishing up sixth grade. We were attracted to the school for its International Baccalaureate curriculum and its incredible sense of community. St. Mary's has exceeded expectations on both fronts. Our daughter has flourished both academically and socially, and it has been a pleasure to watch her grow and develop. Her teachers have been excellent...strong educators but caring and compassionate at the same time. She has two years left at St. Mary's and while graduating
