About Us
Stella Maris—Latin for “Star of the Sea”—is an ancient title for the Blessed Virgin Mary. It evokes the image of Mary as a bright and constant guide, leading us safely through life’s ever-changing waters.
Parenting can feel like navigating a vast ocean: unpredictable, at times turbulent, and often beyond our control. Yet we are never without hope. Christ came to redeem the world, and His mother shines like a steadfast star, pointing us toward Him. We pray that Our Lady will guide our school to remain always aligned with God’s will, just as Mary’s own fiat—“Let it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38)—perfectly conformed to His plan.
Dr. Maria Montessori once wrote, “An education capable of saving humanity is no small undertaking; it involves the spiritual development of man, the enhancement of his value as an individual, and the preparation of young people to understand the times in which they live.”
At Stella Maris Montessori, our mission is to offer an authentic Montessori education rooted in the Catholic faith. We seek to form children who are curious, compassionate, and courageous—young people prepared to meet the challenges of their time and transform the world for Christ. We joyfully welcome all Catholic East Valley families who share this vision.
— Mary Williams, Founder of Stella Maris Montessori
Why choose Stella Maris?
Our mission is to combine authentic Montessori with strong moral values, integrating prayer and work ('Ora Et Labora). A Montessori education develops the child in all areas; socially, emotionally and mentally. It is a model developed to educate the child in the light of that child being a wonder of God’s creation who deserves to be treated with respect and dignity. Montessori children are notably more independent, more creative and more passionate because they learn to honor the inner drive they were given by God to learn about the world around them and appreciate it all as gift.
“As the family goes, so goes the nation, and so goes the whole world in which we live.”
— St. Pope John Paul II