Located in sunny Panama City is one of the hidden gems of the international teaching world, the International School of Panama (ISP). This non-profit school, which has been around for 35 years, continues to grow and innovate. Around 1,200 students in Grades pre-K–12 enjoy an experience steeped in inquiry-based learning.
Most people wouldn’t know that ISP was the first school in Latin America to become a STEM accredited school! All students get exposure across the curriculum in many forms. ISP is an International Baccalaureate (IB) accredited school, and students can graduate with an IB Diploma or an Innovation Certificate. Director Viki Stiebert shared that one of the best comments she heard recently from a student was “Learning is an adventure at our school.” She sees students arrive at school excited to learn.
Students come from over fifty countries, making ISP a truly international community. “ISP is an incredible place of love and joy,” commented Director Viki Stiebert, who went on to say what incredible staff, administrators, families, and students make up its community. On a recent visit to the ISP’s campus in April, Senior Associates Jennifer and Bob Imholt were able to experience the warm, welcoming feeling from the friendly staff as they toured the campus with longtime teacher and administrator, Alida de Garcia de Paredes. The Imholts were greeted by smiling faces, colorful art, lush natural greenery, and tropical flowers while they toured the breezy corridors of the school.
Another unique feature of ISP is the level of commitment that alumni feel toward their alma mater. “Alumni really treasure their school and maintain a connection to Panama and pride in ISP,” explained Ms. Stiebert. “Because of their love for this school, alumni remain interested in what happens here.” After visiting the school, Bob and Jen fully understand why alumni would feel a special connection to this place.
The lovely 9.6 hectare ISP campus has facilities for students to take part in sports as well as the arts. There is a large outdoor chlorine-free pool as well as a FIFA-approved soccer field. In recent years, a beautiful state-of-the-art theater and performing arts center was built on the campus. Student art adorns the walls, and students of all ages use the theater during the year for plays, musicals, and performances of all kinds. Through various art installations, visitors can see the creativity expressed in many forms at ISP.
Teachers who come to ISP will find Panama City to be a vibrant place to live and work. The city is a blend of old and modern. Whether you love history, nature, or both, there are many places to explore in Panama.
This year the new Search Latin America Recruitment Fair will take place in Panama City from November 16 -18th at the Panama Grand Sheraton. Schools and candidates interested in attending the fair (and potentially interviewing with the International School of Panama there) should register to attend.
In conjunction with the fair, International School of Panama will be hosting, on their campus, a New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) training on Thursday, November 15th. This will be a one-day workshop for any educator interested in serving as an ACE Learning Accreditation Visitor. What a great way to get some professional development before attending the fair!
For more information about the Latin American Fair in Panama City or the NEASC training, please visit www.searchassociates.com/international-teaching-job-fairs/latin-america-caribbean/
