Colégio Santa Maria is an American Catholic institution founded in 1948 and located in the southern part of the city of São Paulo, Brazil, and founded and maintained by the Congregation of Holy Cross. Initially founded as an exclusively female school, the college has expanded its educational offerings over the years, including cultural courses, programs for underprivileged children, and a preschool.
Located in the Jardim Marajoara neighborhood, in the southern part of São Paulo, the college occupies a 180,000 m² campus, with five buildings designed by renowned architects such as Croce, Aflalo, and Gasperini, in addition to having extensive green areas. Recognized as one of the leading private schools in the State of São Paulo, Santa Maria College offers preschool, elementary, middle, and high school education, as well as evening supplementary education, serving approximately 3,500 students and currently directed by Professor Dr. Flávia Cristina Faria Dias.
The institution adopts a humanistic educational approach, adapted to different learning styles, emphasizing the practical application of knowledge for a deeper understanding. Furthermore, it seeks to promote the holistic development of students, including cognitive, motor, and socio-emotional aspects.