“Did you know that Academia Cotopaxi was the first school in Ecuador to offer the IB diploma?” Academia Cotopaxi stands before us. It is more than just a school. It is a place of history. It is a place of innovation in education.
Academia Cotopaxi American International School is an English-based school. It is an independent and non-profit institution. The school opened its doors in 1959. Alice Conger was the first director. From humble beginnings in the Ecuadorian-American Center to its current campus, Academia Cotopaxi has grown. It has adapted to serve a diverse student body.
Imagine the early days. Classes used the Calvert Correspondence System. Courses from the University of Nebraska were also used. In 1959 and 1960, Academia Cotopaxi found its first campus. It was in a large house on Avenida de Los Estadios and República de El Salvador.
The school’s focus is on a diverse international faculty. Academia Cotopaxi became the first school in Ecuador. It offered the International Baccalaureate Diploma in 1981. The school joined several organizations. It gained accreditation from regional US agencies. Academia Cotopaxi adopted the IB Primary Years Program. Its education model grew to include the ONE Institute language center. The IMAGINE preschool programs were also added.
Academia Cotopaxi maintains a majority of international students. These students are often children. Their parents work at diplomatic missions. They may work for major international corporations in Ecuador. Local students also attend.
Many notable alumni have walked these halls. Adriana Hoyos, Patricio Alarcón, and Davis Smith are among them. Mark Hanis, Antonio Negret, and Andres Arauz also attended. Carolina Baez is also an alumni. They have made their marks on the world.
Academia Cotopaxi is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. It offers the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is also available. Academia Cotopaxi is affiliated with various associations. These include the Association of American Schools in South America. The Association for the Advancement of International Education is also one. The Principals’ Training Center is another.
Academia Cotopaxi continues to shape future leaders. Its commitment to international education is clear. Its history is rich. Its impact is undeniable.