Director's Message
Welcome to Colegio Panamericano! Thank you for your interest in our school and learning more about the Colegio Panamericano Community. Since 1963 Colegio Panamericano has been providing an outstanding, well-rounded education to students in the Bucaramanga metropolitan area. As the only international school in the Santander region that employs native-English speakers from abroad, Colegio Panamericano strives to provide our students with a global perspective unique to our area. Students have the opportunity to graduate with a diplomas from both Colombia and the United States and many of our students pursue their undergraduate studies at universities outside of our host country.
Colegio Panamericano was the first school in Latin America to receive STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) certification by Cognia. Through Project-Based Learning, students explore different topics that enhance their STEM content knowledge and skills while developing solutions to problems affecting our local communities. Our international teaching staff help develop our students’ English skills while providing a safe and fun learning environment. The school also offers a strong Student Support team, after-school activities and learning opportunities, and robust sports and arts programs.
I could not be prouder to be a member of this special community. We are fortunate to have strong parental support in providing our students with the best education experience. If you choose to become part of our community, you will be welcomed with open arms and participate in special school events such as International Day, our Winter Celebration, Panamerican Days, and witness student learning in STEM fairs. As you navigate our website, know that we are committed to providing our students with the skills, knowledge and character to be successful for the future. Here at Colegio Panamericano “Somos Familia”
Our Purpose
Colegio Panamericano is a progressive, non-profit educational community with a global perspective offering both Colombian and U.S diplomas. Our rigorous curriculum and exemplary faculty empower students to develop their intellectual, physical, and ethical potentials in preparation for a quality university education and a successful life.
Our Vision
We envision our graduates as socially responsible, adaptable, life-long learners and leaders capable of passionately pursuing their dreams.
Our Values
Belief Statements
- Students develop social responsibility by addressing social inequalities and demonstrating exemplary civic behavior with environmental awareness.
- By embracing diversity and creativity, students become independent, outstanding, and tolerant of ambiguity in a changing world.
- An environment focused on the individual strengths and needs of the student facilitates the continuous growth of curious and self-taught learners with the desire to face challenges.
- Empowering students to serve their Panamerican School and all communities fosters their leadership. Students become positive agents of change when they are given meaningful opportunities to take on their challenges, motivate others, take risks, and solve problems collaboratively.
- A holistic educational environment that supports the development of individual talents, motivates perseverance, and inspires the achievement of goals.
Colpana History
In 1962, a group of representatives of the Bucaramanga community, led by Dr. Juan Francisco Villarreal, then Dean of the Universidad Industrial de Santander, decided to organize a school for the dissemination of international bilingual education. Colegio Panamericano was formalized and the Ministry of Education granted it a license to operate on October 24, 1963.
The institution began operations in the eastern sector of the city known as Cabecera del Llano. In 1966, Colegio Panamericano moved to the land where it is currently located, in Floridablanca – Santander, and in 1972 the first high school graduates graduated.
We are currently the only school in the region that offers real immersion through teachers from different parts of the world.
Our Accreditations
Since 1994, Colegio Panamericano has been certified by Cognia, formerly known as AdvancED. Cognia is the largest international organization in the world that accredits educational institutions and their programs according to the highest quality standards. In November 2018, Cognia recognized us as the first school in South America to certify its STEM program.
Additionally, Colegio Panamericano is a member of the Tri-Association, a non-profit organization comprised of private, accredited, independent schools offering an American-style education across three geographic regions: Central America, Mexico, Colombia, and the Caribbean.
We are also affiliated with the Association of American Schools of Colombia and the Caribbean (ACCAS) and the Association of American Schools of South America (AMISA). Notably, we are currently the only institution authorized by the College Board in Santander to administer international tests that allow students to earn college credits at universities abroad.
Furthermore, we are regulated by the Colombian Ministry of Education.
Governance
Colegio Panamericano is governed by a Board of Directors, whose members are appointed by the Parent Assembly. This assembly is made up of all parents who have their children enrolled in the school year.
The Board of Directors must hire a Director who is responsible for the operation of the school in accordance with the policy manuals, regulations, and procedures established. The Director will be the highest academic and administrative authority of Colegio Panamericano.
Facilities
Colegio Panamericano, located in the vibrant community of Floridablanca, Santander, offers a modern and comprehensive educational environment for its students. The campus spans over 10,000 square meters, providing ample space for a variety of academic and extracurricular activities.
The school is equipped with more than 40 classrooms, each designed to foster an engaging learning atmosphere. In addition to traditional classrooms, the facilities include specialized rooms for science, art, and technology, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education.
The campus is designed with student comfort and safety in mind, featuring spacious common areas, libraries, and study zones. Its strategic location in Floridablanca allows easy access for families and enhances the school’s community engagement.
Colpana in Numbers
Years Ago
8:1
Student to
Teacher Ratio
Years Certified
by COGNIA
Students
Co-Curricular
Activities
Admissions Colpana
