If you are moving to Panama with kids, you may be asking yourself, “How will I keep the kids on track while navigating a new life in Panama?” You’re not alone.

For families relocating to Panama with school-aged children, education is one of the most significant uncertainties. Faced with a list of choices to make, from healthcare to residency, finding the right school can be overwhelming.

International Schools in Panama City are expensive, and it often feels like you’re choosing between a life filled with adventure and cultural experiences or an academic foundation. 

You have more options than you might think. Families in Panama are successfully blending international living with high-quality education, not just in the city. 

Education is rapidly changing, and hundreds of families in Panama have left behind city life for a lifestyle that’s much more conducive to raising children.

These families often seek out the tranquility and natural beauty of Panama’s countryside or coastal areas, where they can provide their children with a unique upbringing that blends learning with the environment. In these settings, education extends beyond the classroom walls.

Project-based learning on Panama’s Pacific Coast 

Coronado International School  (CIS) offers families access to the Coronado Country Club. Families can golf, play tennis, pickleball, and use the pools and gym. With the beach club, families can explore the Pacific coastline and the diverse ecosystems of the ‘dry arc.’

CIS offers Project-Based Learning (PBL). PBL has proven to boost engagement by offering a deeper understanding of a subject. By connecting learning to real-world problems, students develop skills that are increasingly important in today’s world.

This immersive approach to education is proving not only to enhance academic learning but also creativity, independence, and a global perspective.

What Sets Aside Education in Coronado, Panama

Coronado Panama offers families the perfect blend of a relaxed lifestyle and access to luxurious amenities, along with exceptional educational opportunities.

Benefits for CIS Families:

• Membership at the Coronado Golf & Country Club, a private club located in Coronado, Panama
• A vibrant, integrated international community of like-minded families
• Graduates earn both Panamanian and U.S. diplomas
• Connections to various post-secondary education options worldwide

The CIS educational approach is a balance of structure and flexibility. Students engage in experiential, project-based learning modeled after leading education systems, where curiosity is nurtured, and real-world connections are seamlessly integrated into each lesson.

Are there high school-aged kids in Coronado?

Relocating with Older Children? Coronado, Panama, boasts one of the largest communities of high school-aged kids outside Panama City.

Many high school students in Coronado attend the International School of Coronado (CIS), while others pursue their education online through homeschool and worldschool platforms.

A Thriving Student Community

The community of students aged 13 to 19 in Coronado provides essential social connections during this pivotal stage of life. CIS offers a structured academic pathway, guiding students toward career opportunities in fields such as technology, robotics, and AI for those interested. 

Considering Withdrawal from Canadian or U.S. Schools?

If your child is presently enrolled in a school in Canada or the U.S., you will need to:

• Officially withdraw your child and obtain their academic records
• Gather documentation, including any IEPs or test scores
• Familiarize yourself with the homeschooling laws specific to your state (if relevant)
• Keep a learning portfolio that showcases your child’s accomplishments while abroad

If you intend to re-enter the Canadian or U.S. education system in the future, being aware of the requirements can help ensure a smooth transition without unnecessary stress.

Navigating Education in Panama 

Selecting the right educational path is more of a journey than a single decision. One year of homeschooling may make sense for your family, and the next, you may pivot in favor of an international school.

The crucial factor is to choose the option that aligns best with your child’s needs and your family’s lifestyle today. The beauty of education abroad lies in its flexibility and deep connection to the world around you.

If you have additional questions about schools in Panama, contact us at playa@playacommunity.com