The story of SPM started with a simple but powerful goal: to establish a model Indonesian school. In 1994, five founding families, led by the initiative of Laurel and George Tahija, set out to create an educational environment that would prioritize the student above all else.

By December 1995, these families established "Perkumpulan Mandiri" (the Mandiri Association), a non-denominational, not-for-profit vehicle designed to fund and manage this new educational endeavor. In July 1996, the dream became a reality when Sekolah PSKD Mandiri opened its doors with an initial student body of just 25.

As the school grew to offer a full spectrum of classes—from Kindergarten and Elementary to Junior and Senior High—it never lost its focus on character development. Seeking a balance between academic achievement and 21st-century skills, the school adopted the 7 Habits framework developed by FranklinCovey, USA.

The journey toward global recognition was a rigorous and inspiring one:

• 2009: Significant staff training began, including "Training for Trainers" and a visit from Dr. Dean Collinwood of the Franklin Covey Center for Advanced Research.
• 2010–2011: The community engaged in multiple visits to AB Combs in the USA, hosted its first Leadership Day, and underwent its first Lighthouse School Audit.
• April 2012: A historic milestone was reached when Sekolah PSKD Mandiri was recognized as the 1st International Lighthouse School outside of America. This prestigious "Lighthouse Status" was officially celebrated on April 4, 2012.