More than an escuela.
A family-led Spanish immersion preschool in San Mateo, and a second casa for children and families for nearly twenty years.
Our story.
At Mi Second Casa, we believe childhood should feel joyful, nurturing and deeply connected.
Mi Second Casa was founded in 2007 by Graciela “Tía” Tejada, a lifelong early childhood educator with more than 30 years of experience and a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Adolescent Development. It began as a small family childcare program built on one simple idea: children thrive when they feel safe, loved and at home.
Today, Mi Second Casa has grown into a family-led Spanish immersion preschool serving infants, toddlers and preschoolers in the heart of San Mateo. While our program has expanded, our heart remains the same. We are more than an escuela. We are a second casa for children and families alike.
To create a nurturing, safe and fun environment where pequeños grow with confidence, curiosity and a strong sense of belonging, all while immersed in español.
CariñoWarmth and safety
Children learn best when they feel safe, known and loved, so that always comes first.
JuegoPlay-based learning
Exploration, creativity, movement, music, outdoor play and hands-on experiences build confidence, independence and empathy.
EspañolFull immersion
Language grows naturally, en español, through every song, meal and game of the day.
ComunidadBelonging for every family
We celebrate the diversity of our community, so every child feels seen, valued and included, and every family is a partner.
Proudly family-run.
Mi Second Casa is owned and run by the Tejada family, and all three of us are part of daily life at school.
Graciela “Tía” Tejada
Founder
Leads our In-Home program, where it all began.
Michael Tejada
Executive Director
Guides the program's growth and works closely with families and teachers.
Miguel Tejada
Interim Director
Teacher, strategist and a steady, hands-on presence for more than a decade.
Quality care should be within reach.
Both programs take part in the 4Cs of San Mateo County Alternative Payment Program, and the Center offers a Community Access Tuition Adjustment for families who qualify.
Come and meet the family.
The best way to understand this place is to spend half an hour in it. Book a tour of either school, and we'll take it from there.