About

Maricar Abaya-Antonio
Program Director / Collaborator / Co-learner

Maricar graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Human Development with a concentration in Child and Family Psychology. Maricar led as an Operations Director for ChildrenFirst, Inc. and Bright Horizons Backup Solutions for over 10 years prior to being a stay-at-home mom to her daughter and son. She is pursuing her Master’s Degree from Pacific Oaks College, majoring in Human Development, with an emphasis in Leadership and Training, Generalist.

Maricar enjoys traveling, arts, literature, dancing, yoga, dining adventures and spending quality time with her family. It has been her lifelong dream to own and operate her own preschool program. Maricar believes that children thrive in an environment that foster and nurture independence, freedom of exploration and guided learning opportunities. She is passionate about Reggio Emilia teaching philosophy, Social Constructivism and Behavioral Science. Maricar is a member of NAREA (North American Reggio Emilia Alliance) and Silicon Valley SBDC (Small Business Development Center).

Our task, regarding creativity, is to help children climb their own mountains, as high as possible. No one can do more.” — Loris Malaguzzi