The Story of Mareas
The Beginnings of Mareas Academy
Mareas Academy was founded in 2012 by three visionary women: Angelina Phillips (USA), Lenina Araya (Costa Rica), and Miryam González (Colombia). Seeking an educational alternative aligned with their children’s values and needs, they came together to create a different kind of school in Playa Sámara, Guanacaste.
The idea was born during an afternoon at the beach, inspired by the steady rhythm of the tides. That’s how the name Mareas (Tides) emerged—symbolizing the educational journey, with its changes, flow, and the unique marks each student leaves along the way.
The First Steps at Patio Colonial
Mareas Academy began its journey at the Patio Colonial Shopping Center, thanks to the support of Don Rafael García. Operating under the name “Mareas International Homeschool” and starting with just five students—the founders’ own children—the school opened its doors with passion and purpose. Soon, more families seeking a different educational approach joined with enthusiasm, and the first year ended with an enrollment of twenty students. Through dedication, hard work, and a strong belief in its mission, Mareas grew both in size and in spirit.
Growth and Transition
By 2019, with a steadily growing student population, the institution took a major step: relocating to a new, more spacious, safe, and welcoming campus just one kilometer from downtown Sámara. This new space, surrounded by nature and featuring a farm in the back, became possible thanks to the generosity of Doña Cristina Castillo, who opened her property to support the development of educational projects in various areas.
The Fulfillment of a Long-Standing Goal
In November 2024, after many years of dreaming, planning, and tireless work, Mareas Academy moved into its new facilities, turning a long-envisioned goal into reality. This new campus was carefully designed with the needs of its educational community in mind and meets the requirements necessary to pursue official accreditation from the Ministry of Public Education of Costa Rica. The transition process was demanding—full of technical, logistical, and emotional challenges—but also deeply rewarding. Every step was filled with love, effort, and commitment, and the final result reflects the power of that collective dedication.
The Heart of Mareas
Lenina Araya, founding director of Mareas Academy, is a Costa Rican educator whose vision, dedication, and love for teaching have been key to the school’s growth. She has led the project with passion from the start, overcoming challenges while raising her three children. She believes in an education rooted in happiness, kindness, and respect, and hopes each student feels valued and inspired to become their best self. Today, she shares this journey with her daughter Isabella, a Mareas graduate and now part of the teaching team, known for her strong calling and natural gift for working with children. Together, they continue to strengthen a project that has become a beacon of education for Sámara and its surrounding communities.