Quick summary of key school information
All the details about this school in their own words
Nationalities
Number of students |
Our campus can welcome up to 1200 students. |
Number of nationalities represented in the school |
43 |
Most common nationality |
The most common nationalities are Panamanian, United States Citizens, Brazilian and Venezuelan |
Ratio of local students to international students |
The ratio of local to international students is 30/70 |
Languages
Native English speaking teachers |
We hire a wide variety of teachers from around the globe who are all native or fluent in the language in which they instruct. |
Language support for students not fluent in English |
ISP offers tools for students who require additional support to learn the language of instruction on our English as an Additional Language and Spanish as an Additional Language program. |
Additional language classes offered by the school |
We offer Spanish as a class, however French and Mandarin are offered as after-school activities. |
Classroom
Max. number of students per class |
This will depend on the grade the students attend. For Pre-K, the maximum number is 16. Then from Kinder to 12 Grade, it is 22. |
Average number of students per class |
PK3: 18, PK4: 18, Kinder: 17, Grade 1: 17, Grade 2: 19, Grade 3: 21, Grade 4: 17, Grade 5: 21, Grade 6: 22, Grade 7: 22, Grade 8: 21, Grade 9: 22, Grade 10: 23, Grade 11: 24, Grade 12: 20. |
Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
There is a learning assistant in every classroom from Pre-K to Elementary. |
Use of technology in the classroom |
Yes. ISP has rich access to technology in the classroom to support student learning goals. Students have access to iPads, Chromebooks, specialized computer labs, and STEM labs.
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Is the school ready to use virtual classrooms when needed? (e.g. teaching lessons online if the school is closed, e.g. during COVID-19 closures) |
Yes, ISP is well prepared for remote learning scenarios and has invested in access to multiple digital learning platforms to support remote learning. Students and teachers communicate through a learning management system- all assignments are posted through these systems so that students have access to their learning materials whether on campus or at home. Teachers and students also use video conferencing platforms like Google Meet and Zoom to connect live with their teachers during classes. Our library has both physical books and an online library, and ISP has online learning tools to support reading and math and interactive response systems to keep students engaged and assess their learning no matter where they are. |
Do students practice religion at the school? What religion? |
As a multicultural, non-secular organization ISP does not enforce any type of religious instruction in students. |
How does the school accommodate non-religious students or students of a different religion? |
ISP is a non secular organization with a vibrant and diverse community that respects and includes families from all backgrounds, this principle is very well integrated into our DNA and part of our school policy. |
Academics
External examinations or assessments available |
IB Programme, TOEFL, or language proficiency tests to study in English. They used to take SAT/ACT, but those have not been offered in Panama in the last year and a half. We also have some students take medical school entrance exams (BMAT/UCAT). |
Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
This will vary by division, but one of our primary hopes as a school is that students have an opportunity to engage in a number of activities after school. From athletics to VAPA, Model UN to student leadership, we prioritize experiences for our students. With that being said, we work hard to limit the amount of homework that students have so they can engage in these activities. The amount of homework may increase slightly as students get older, but should not take more than 45-60 minutes in Middle School, and 1 hour in High School. |
Approximate hours of homework given |
To complete homework a student may need 45 to 60 minutes depending on the grade they attend. |
Percentage of students who pursue further education post-graduation |
We have about 95% of our students enter into an undergraduate program after graduation.
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Student support
Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
At ISP we celebrate the diversity of our learning community. Our Learning Support Team works in partnership with classroom teachers to differentiate instruction and assessment practices. Through small group and individual interventions, education specialists assist teachers in ensuring students acquire the skills and knowledge needed to access the curriculum. The Department of Student Services works closely with classroom teachers and specialists to tailor instruction to students’ learning needs and goals and ensure meeting the needs of a diverse population of students. We offer instruction and resources for developmentally appropriate learning in the areas of English language acquisition, approaches to learning, social-emotional skills, and career/college awareness. To ensure access and equity to our curriculum, Universal Design for Learning(UDL) is utilized. UDL is a framework for instructional design that can be applied to teaching and learning to reduce barriers, support and engage learners, and address the socioemotional needs of students. |
Learning support offered |
We serve a broad range of learners and celebrate the neurodiversity in the world. That means 10% to 15% of our learners will present with an additional learning need. |
The school supports gifted, able and talented students |
We believe that exposure to diversity challenges students and staff to think critically, become leaders able to challenge assumptions and explore alternative approaches and solutions to real-world problems.
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Student access to education psychologist |
ISP counselors serve all students as an integrated part of holistic education and offer opportunities, instruction, and resources for developmentally appropriate learning in the areas of social-emotional, academic, and career/college awareness. As an international school community, counselors are culturally sensitive to the needs of our diverse students. ISP counselors support and advocate for students, families, and staff, empowering all students to learn, grow and thrive in a safe school environment and to be positive contributors in the world. Services K-12
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Admissions
Entry evaluation for students |
Our admissions process will require an assessment to ensure ISP is the best fit for your family. This includes exploring your student's needs, guaranteeing they have a great learning experience. |
Brief description of entry evaluation required |
This will depend on the grade they will attend.
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Waiting list |
For some grades, there is a waiting list. |
Deadline for registration (new academic year) |
We manage rolling admissions so students can enroll at any time throughout the year. In that sense, we can only reserve a seat for a student for a semester.
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Students can join after academic year begins |
Yes, as an international school we are used to students enrolling in different moments throughout the year. We do try to recommend specific start dates depending on the moment of the year, i.e. if possible we might recommend waiting to the start of the next quarter. |
School day
School start time |
Our school normally begins at 7:30 a.m. *subject to change due to restrictions during the global COVID-19 pandemic. |
School finish time |
2:40 p.m. *subject to change due to restrictions during the global COVID-19 pandemic. |
School bus service available |
ISP provides families with a list of trusted transportation service providers to choose from. |
School provided lunches |
Yes |
Food alternatives for special dietary needs (ie. vegan, kosher, halal etc) |
Our cafeteria provides a variety of meals for our students, always using fresh ingredients locally sourced. Our goal is to provide home-cooked meals that are healthy and nutritious. Our school chef personally accommodates dietary restrictions and preferences for students offering allergen-free, vegan, and vegetarian options. |
Uniform required |
Yes |
Extracurricular activities
Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
We have a wide range of extracurricular activities such as Lego STEM, Robotics, Dance, Music production, Film production, Arts & Crafts, Gymnastics, Cheerleading, Mandarin, and many more. All the extracurricular activities are described on the AfterSchool activity program webpage ( https://www.isp.edu.pa/arts-athletics-activities/after-school-activities ) |
Sports activities included |
Personal fitness and health, invasion games (such as soccer and basketball), net and wall games (such as volleyball and tennis), swimming, gymnastics/dance are part of the PE curriculum.
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Sports teams or sport competitions available for students |
Yes, Our athletics coaches and programs are NFHS certified, ISP is the first and only school holding this certification in Latin America. We offer 7 sports (soccer, basketball, volleyball, flag football (girls only), tennis, track and field, and swimming. Student-athletes and teams compete locally and internationally as part of the Association of American Schools in Central America (AASCA). |
Facilities
Sports facilities at the school |
Semi-Olympic sized 6 lane swimming pool, three tennis courts, 2 large air-conditioned gymnasium, three basketball/volleyball courts, two full-size soccer fields, and a 4 lane track. |
About the school
Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
We are the only non-profit, independent international school in Panama. Our organization is student-centered and certified by Cognia, MEDUCA, and we are an IB World School. At our school, you will find a vibrant multicultural community in an inclusive environment. We are well known for our academic excellence and the holistic development of tomorrow's leaders who freely explore their passions and are exposed to solving real-world problems developing critical thinking skills that guarantee that our global citizens find opportunities to shine everywhere they go. |
Teaching approach of the school |
Our early childhood program is a play based, joyful, multiage program that enhances learning through the power of choice, which is at the heart of social emotional learning, creativity and fun. In our outdoor and indoor areas, students explore concepts of their daily life, develop critical thinking skills and discover the attributes needed to successfully navigate their future.
Rooted in our ISP character profile, and recognizing #thereisnoplacelikeISP, our elementary school boasts an inquiry model that allows students to explore, investigate, and dig deeply into their learning. Curricular units are designed to provide voice, choice, and real-world application in all areas of learning. STEM integration, daily Spanish instruction, field trips that honor and explore Panamanian culture, after school activities in athletics and Visual & Performing Arts allow students to truly experience this unique and incredible place while tapping into their gifts and intellectual curiosity. Our Middle School is an inclusive, engaging, and supportive environment for students to learn and grow at their own pace. Through our strong advisory program and commitment to planning with the end in mind, we provide an experience committed to the academic, social, and emotional development of each and every student. From debating complex issues during socratic seminars to sharing short stories during writing celebrations, designing solutions to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to showcasing their passions on the stage and athletic fields, our students are empowered to explore the skills, mindsets, and character traits that will allow them to develop their full potential as learners and leaders in the 21st century. Students enrolled in the High School section at ISP are provided with an education that inspires them to reach their full potential. At ISP, students are encouraged to take full advantage of our many offerings to become lifelong learners prepared for a future without borders. This is accomplished by providing multiple pathways that serve the needs of a multicultural community. We offer the International Baccalaureate diploma and certificate pathway, the Innovation & Entrepreneur Certificate (IEC) pathway, and/or the MEDUCA diploma, all as part of achieving the ISP Diploma. |