STELLA MARIS SHINES THE LIGHT OF KNOWLEDGE IN THE LOVING SHADE OF HOME – DENNIS JOSEPH’S STORY
Discovering the hidden talents in every child and nurturing them with affection is a mission. An institution that provides not just knowledge, but love and security, and cultivates students with social values is a dream for many. One such visionary entrepreneur who has created a revolution in education by giving students the care and affection of their own home -Dennis Joseph, along with his family.
Inspired by his teaching experience in North India, Dennis Joseph, driven by a passion to provide excellent education to children in his hometown, started Stella Maris Boarding School in Koodaranji, Kozhikode. He began with about 30 students in a rented building. When other parents recognised the remarkable growth in children’s academics, arts, and sports, Dennis established Stella Maris – a school with modern facilities. This became a milestone in the educational history of a visionary person and the village of Koodaranji.
The biggest attraction of Stella Maris is its lush green campus blessed with rich biodiversity. The cool and positive atmosphere makes it an excellent space for children to study and grow. The presence of Dennis and his family, along with most of the teachers, living on the campus makes Stella Maris more than a school – it is truly a home for the students.
Following the CBSE curriculum up to Class 10, Stella Maris gives importance to holistic skill development alongside academic excellence. Special attention is given to building students’ confidence in sports and arts. Under the guidance of expert coaches, the school offers classes in dance, music, painting, chess, skating, karate, and football.
The institution pays special attention to understanding each child’s individual abilities and weaknesses and providing specialized training. Yoga classes have also been included in the curriculum to enhance concentration, mental alertness, and personal discipline in children. This educational approach instills confidence in parents to send their children to Stella Maris.
Students from various parts of the country, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, are with Stella Maris today. Indeed, a microcosm of India can be seen at Stella Maris School. Recognizing the excellence of children who complete their education here, the increasing number of arrivals from various parts of India each year is recognition of this institution’s excellence.
The institution, which has held affiliation for 12 years, has achieved 100 percent success in consecutive years. Currently, Stella Maris offers classes from Kindergarten to Class 10. The institution pays special attention to providing high-tech standard education and related facilities while embracing timely changes. Excellent hostel rooms with facilities including AC, and quality diverse food are the specialties of this boarding school.
The smiling faces of students living under one roof with the Chairman and his family proclaim that this boarding school is equal to their family. Dennis Joseph’s dream is to start Senior Secondary classes and professional courses in the coming years. Dennis’s steps are strengthened by unwavering faith in God and family support. Dennis adds that the support received from students’ families also fuels his journey.
Stella Maris School is also proof that education means gaining the strength to face life with confidence, beyond just marks. With two decades of work experience, it stands shining as one among Kerala’s boarding schools. This is a success story of hard work in the lush green school campus, under one family’s discipline, without deviating from moral values.
