Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Bahlol
Hi Maria, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My Story – How I Started and Got to Where I Am Today
Background and Education
Born and raised in Japan, I developed a deep appreciation for culture, tradition, and the transformative power of education. Fluent in Japanese, English, and Farsi, I have dedicated over 20 years to the teaching industry.
I graduated at the top of my class in Economics with a minor in Fine Art from the University of California, Berkeley, where I also received a full scholarship for my artistic talent. My academic journey continued at Harvard University, where I earned a teaching and director’s certificate, sharpening my expertise in early childhood education.
The Inspiration Behind La Maison Academy
As I started thinking about the kind of education I wanted for my own young children, I realized how much all children deserve the best possible start to their academic journey—one filled with wonder, joy, and exploration. Childhood should be a time of curiosity and discovery, where children are introduced to a broad and enriching world that inspires their natural desire to learn.
I was fortunate to have a multicultural educational upbringing, which exposed me to different languages, traditions, and ways of thinking. This experience deeply shaped who I am, and I want to offer the same opportunities to other children. Instead of a program that simply keeps children occupied, I believe in creating a meaningful, engaging learning experience that provides abundant opportunities for growth and discovery.
Founding La Maison Academy
Motivated by a commitment to providing young children with personalized attention and a nurturing environment during their most formative years, I founded La Maison Academy. My goal was to create a bridge between the warmth of home and the structure of a classroom, fostering a love for learning and preparing children for a bright, confident future. With a 1:4 teacher-to-student ratio, our small class sizes foster close friendships, teamwork, and individualized learning experiences.
Unique Educational Approach
At La Maison Academy, we blend the best elements of Montessori and Waldorf philosophies to create a rich, nurturing, and structured environment. As Austin’s only Japanese-English bilingual preschool, we immerse our students in language and cultural experiences that broaden their worldview. In addition to bilingual education, we introduce French as a third language, with daily story times led by a dedicated native French teacher to enrich our curriculum.
Another distinguishing feature of our program is etiquette education, as I am a certified toddler etiquette instructor. From an early age, we guide children in developing grace, confidence, and social awareness, skills that will benefit them for a lifetime.
A Balance Between Academics and Developmental Milestones
I firmly believe that a high-quality preschool curriculum should support children both academically and developmentally. That’s why our curriculum is designed to foster cognitive growth, motor skills, social-emotional learning, and language development. I strive to incorporate the very best educational methods, inspired by my own childhood experiences, into every moment of learning. Children at La Maison Academy are constantly exposed to new ideas, stimulating activities, and engaging lessons that nurture both their intellectual abilities and their developmental milestones.
Mission and Vision
Our mission at La Maison Academy is to cultivate a love for learning, creativity, and global awareness in every child. We aim to partner with families to create a nurturing and inspiring foundation for their children’s lifelong journey.
This journey reflects my dedication to early childhood education and my passion for creating a learning environment filled with joy, curiosity, and meaningful connections—one that honors each child’s unique potential and provides them with the best possible start in life.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey of setting up La Maison Academy while homeschooling two young children—my 3-year-old and 1-year-old—has been anything but smooth, but it has been incredibly rewarding. Being a stay-at-home mom while simultaneously building a school has come with its fair share of challenges.
One of the biggest struggles has been balancing it all—homeschooling, nurturing my children, managing daily house chores, setting up the school, and running errands—all at the same time. Every day is a juggling act, ensuring my children receive the education, stimulation, and care they need while also working behind the scenes to bring my vision for La Maison Academy to life. I have been intentional about exposing my children to educational programs, outings, and hands-on learning experiences every day, but that also means I am constantly on the move, with little downtime.
Despite the challenges, I have loved every moment of it. Watching my children learn, grow, and play—not only with each other but also with their friends—has been a priceless experience. The joy of seeing their curiosity flourish and their friendships form makes all the hard work worth it. Though the days can feel overwhelming, I remind myself that this is a season of life filled with purpose and meaning. Every effort I put into my children’s education and the creation of La Maison Academy is shaping a beautiful future, not just for my family, but for the children and families who will be part of our school.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about La Maison Academy?
Please tell us more about your business or organization. What should we know?
La Maison Academy is a boutique Japanese-English bilingual preschool in Austin, Texas, offering a Montessori and Waldorf-inspired early childhood education. Our program is individually designed to support both academic and developmental milestones, ensuring that each child receives a personalized learning experience tailored to their growth and interests.
We offer two enrollment options:
2-day program
Tuesday & Thursday, 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM or 8:30 AM – 02:30 PM
With a 1:4 teacher-to-student ratio, our small class sizes ensure that each child receives individualized attention and guidance.
What do you do, and what do you specialize in?
At La Maison Academy, we provide a rich, immersive early education experience that fosters curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning. Our curriculum blends Montessori’s structured independence-building approach with Waldorf’s imaginative, artistic, and nature-based learning, ensuring children thrive both intellectually and emotionally.
A key component of our program is bilingual education, as we are Austin’s only Japanese-English bilingual preschool. Additionally, a native French teacher visits once a week, introducing French through engaging storytelling and activities that expand children’s cognitive flexibility and global awareness.
Music is also a fundamental part of our curriculum, and we offer piano instruction as an introduction to music education, supporting children’s fine motor skills, auditory development, and appreciation for rhythm and melody.
What sets La Maison Academy apart from other preschools?
Individually Designed Curriculum for Academic & Developmental Milestones
Our curriculum is carefully crafted to support both academic learning and key developmental milestones, ensuring a balanced approach to early education.
Children receive tailored instruction based on their individual strengths and progress, rather than a one-size-fits-all curriculum.
Montessori & Waldorf Hybrid Approach
Montessori philosophy fosters independence, practical skills, and structured learning.
Waldorf elements encourage creativity, imagination, and a deep connection with nature.
The combination of both ensures children develop cognitive, emotional, and physical skills holistically.
Multilingual & Cultural Education
We are Austin’s only Japanese-English bilingual preschool, providing a rich linguistic environment that enhances cognitive development.
A native French teacher visits weekly, exposing children to French language and culture through engaging activities and stories.
Children develop a deep appreciation for global cultures, broadening their perspectives from an early age.
Music & Creative Expression
We incorporate piano instruction into our curriculum, nurturing children’s musical intelligence, coordination, and discipline.
Arts, storytelling, and hands-on creative projects encourage self-expression, confidence, and communication skills.
Low Teacher-Student Ratio & Boutique Experience
Our 1:4 teacher-student ratio ensures that every child receives individualized support and guidance.
Unlike larger schools, we provide a close-knit, family-like environment where children feel safe, confident, and encouraged to explore.
What are you most proud of brand-wise?
I am most proud of the intention and care put into every aspect of La Maison Academy. Rather than offering a standard early education program, I have designed a truly unique and enriching preschool experience that reflects the best educational philosophies, the joy of learning, and a commitment to global awareness.
This school is an extension of my own educational values and personal experiences—combining everything I wish for my own children: a nurturing and inspiring early education that opens doors to a lifetime of curiosity, creativity, and confidence.
What do you want our readers to know about your brand and offerings?
La Maison Academy is more than just a preschool; it’s a thoughtfully designed, boutique early learning environment where children receive the highest level of individualized education and care. Our multilingual, culturally immersive, and creativity-driven curriculum supports academic excellence and childhood development in a joyful, engaging way.
For families seeking a high-quality, personalized preschool experience that blends academic growth, social-emotional development, and cultural enrichment, La Maison Academy is a place where children will thrive, explore, and develop a lifelong love of learning.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
There are several ways people can work with, collaborate, or support La Maison Academy and our mission to provide a rich, multicultural, and high-quality early childhood education experience.
1. Enroll in Our Program
The best way to support La Maison Academy is by enrolling your child in our boutique bilingual preschool program. We offer 2-day (Tuesday & Thursday) and 3-day (Monday, Tuesday & Thursday) options, designed for families who value individualized learning, Montessori and Waldorf-inspired education, and cultural immersion.
If you or someone you know is looking for a small, nurturing, and high-quality preschool, I would love to welcome more families into our growing community.
2. Spread the Word
If you know families in Austin who may be looking for a unique, bilingual early education experience, sharing our program with them would be an incredible way to support us.
Recommendations from friends, family, and local parenting groups are the most valuable way to help us grow.
3. Collaborate as an Educator or Expert
I’m always looking to collaborate with professionals who specialize in early childhood education, arts, music, or cultural programs that align with our mission.
If you’re a language instructor, artist, or educator who would like to contribute to enriching our curriculum, I’d love to connect.
4. Partner with Us for Special Programs or Events
Businesses, artists, musicians, and community organizations interested in sponsoring or hosting educational experiences for our preschoolers can partner with us to bring unique learning opportunities to our students.
I am also open to collaborations with local businesses that focus on children’s enrichment, educational toys, cultural experiences, or healthy foods.
5. Support Through Resources or Donations
While La Maison Academy is a private boutique preschool, we are always looking for ways to expand and enhance our offerings.
If you have access to educational materials, Montessori/Waldorf-inspired resources, cultural learning tools, or even books in different languages, contributions would be deeply appreciated.
6. Connect With Me for Speaking or Advocacy Opportunities
With my background in early childhood education, bilingual learning, and etiquette instruction, I am open to guest speaking opportunities, parent education workshops, or advocacy projects that align with expanding access to quality early education.
How to Get in Touch
Visit our website: La Maison Academy
Email me: Admissions@LaMaisonAcademy.com
Follow & share on social media to stay updated on our programs and events- @LaMaisonAcademy_Austin
Pricing:
- 2-Day Program (Tuesday & Thursday, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM) → $1,350 per month
- 3-Day Program (Monday, Tuesday & Thursday, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM) → $1,800 per month
Contact Info:
- Website: https://LaMaisonAcademy.com
- Instagram: @LaMaisonAcademy_Austin
