Crossroads Christian Academy and TRAIL School are both in Panama City, about 8 km apart. Both schools offer American programmes, and Crossroads Christian Academy also offers Bespoke and Christian. Published annual fees are $8,100 - 13,250 at Crossroads Christian Academy and $4,000 - 13,660 at TRAIL School, which puts Crossroads Christian Academy roughly 21% higher. Crossroads Christian Academy takes pupils from 3 to 18, and TRAIL School from 2 to 18. The two are similar in size, at around 167 and 135 pupils. Typical class sizes are 13 at Crossroads Christian Academy and 16 at TRAIL School.
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Crossroads Christian Academy
Panama City, Panama
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TRAIL School
Panama City, Panama
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year $8,100 - 13,250 | Fees / year $4,000 - 13,660 |
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Age range
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Age range 3 - 18 years | Age range 2 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum American Curriculum, Bespoke Curriculum, Christian Curriculum | Curriculum American Curriculum |
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Pupils
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Pupils 167 | Pupils 135 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 13 | Typical class size 16 |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened 1997 | Opened — |
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Bus service
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Bus service No | Bus service No |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location The Crossroads Christian Academy is located in the Corozal area of Panama City, Republic of Panama. The address is Building #6582 Corozal, Ave. Omar Torrijos-Herrera, between Albrook and Clayton. | Location TRAIL School is located at the Panama Pacifico campus, 841 Andrews Blvd., Panama Pacifico, Panama. It serves the Panama Pacifico community. The campus is accredited by MEDUCA Panama. |
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Stages
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Stages The school serves Pre-K through 12th grade, organized into Elementary, Middle School, and High School. | Stages TRAIL offers early childhood education through high school. The program includes Early Childhood Education, Kindergarten, Elementary School, Middle School, and High School. |
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School type
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School type The school is a private international Christian school. | School type The school is an inclusive foundation school. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix — | Pupil nationality mix — |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support The school generally does not accept students with special educational needs. | Additional learning support The Inclusive Learning Center provides support for students with additional learning needs. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation Panama | Country affiliation — |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation Christian (affiliated with Crossroads Bible Church; operates with a Christian faith-based mission) | Religious affiliation — |
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School day structure
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School day structure The school year runs from August to mid-June. School hours are 7:40 AM–2:30 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, and 7:40 AM–12:40 PM on Wednesdays. | School day structure — |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details CCA does not operate its own bus service; transportation can be arranged through an external referral. | Bus service details — |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Application and Entry Fees - Application (processing) fee: USD 100 per student (nonrefundable). - Testing fee (new applicants): USD 50 (one-time). - Registration fee (annual): USD 650 per student (paid yearly with registration; nonrefundable). - Entrance (one-time enrollment) fee: standard listed amount for 2026–2027 is USD 5,000 per student with multiple payment options; alternative corporate entrance amounts and historical payment options are published for families on company/embassy plans. Payment-option examples include a one-time USD 5,000 payment or staggered plans over 5, 10, or 20 months at higher totals (e.g., options shown include USD 5,250, USD 5,500, or up to USD 6,000 depending on the plan chosen). The entrance fee is required to secure a place and is nonrefundable. Tuition fees by year group (School Year 2026–2027) - K3 & K4: USD 7,450 per year (equivalent listed as USD 745 per month on a 10-month plan). - K5 & Grades 1–4: USD 8,130 per year (equivalent listed as USD 813 per month on a 10-month plan). - Grades 5–8 (Middle School): USD 8,790 per year (equivalent listed as USD 879 per month on a 10-month plan). - Grades 9–12 (High School): USD 9,500 per year (equivalent listed as USD 950 per month on a 10-month plan). - Corporate (employer-paid) tuition rates (examples published): K3 & K4 USD 9,000; K5 & Elementary USD 13,500; Middle School USD 14,500; High School USD 15,000. Corporate rates and conditions apply when an employer or organization is directly responsible for payment. How tuition is billed and payment terms (billing schedule) - Tuition is charged on an annual basis with an option to pay via a standard 10-month payment plan. When using the 10-month plan, the annual tuition is divided into 10 equal monthly payments. The listed monthly amounts on the 2026–2027 schedule equal the annual tuition divided by 10. - First monthly payment: due no later than five business days before the start of classes when using monthly payments; students may not attend classes until this first payment has been received. Subsequent monthly payments are due on the 10th of each month (months cited include 9/10, 10/10, 11/10, 12/10, 1/10, 2/10, 3/10, 4/10, and 5/10 for the standard payment cycle). Payments are considered past due on the 11th; a 10% late fee is assessed on outstanding balances each month. - Accounts 90 days past due: students with accounts reflecting 90 days of outstanding balance will be notified that the student will not be allowed to attend school or extracurricular activities until payments are made and/or a payment plan is approved. Report cards, transcripts, and access to some online systems will be withheld for families with outstanding balances. Other mandatory and common fees (yearly / per-service) - Technology fee (annual): Elementary (K5–5) USD 20; Middle School USD 40; High School USD 90 (due with August payment). - Graduation fee (Grade 12): USD 125 (due with August payment). - After-school and extracurricular activity fees: variable by activity and season; parents are charged specific fees when signing up for optional programs. - Before-school supervision (early drop-off): USD 5 per day (as needed) or USD 30 per month (monthly plan; no refunds if not used). After-school late pickup supervision: USD 20 for the first 30 minutes and USD 20 for each additional 30-minute increment. - Field trip transportation: minimum fee USD 5 per trip when transportation is required. - Textbooks: included in tuition; textbooks remain school property. Parents are charged for damaged or lost textbooks (cost of replacement plus shipping, and a minimum surcharge where applicable). - Returned / rejected checks: minimum fee USD 30. Fees charged may vary based on bank charges. - Transcripts and academic document fees: examples published include USD 5 per U.S. transcript copy, USD 20 for local institution copies (translation/formatting), and USD 40 for processing a local Panamanian diploma. Fees vary by document and service. - Hot lunch program: available through a contracted vendor; ordering and payment are done through the vendor's website and require payment by credit card. Boarding - Crossroads Christian Academy does not operate boarding facilities. Transportation to and from school is the responsibility of parents; school transportation for extracurricular activities is arranged on a per-activity basis with outside providers. Refunds and withdrawal-related charges - Entrance fee and registration fee: these fees are required to secure enrollment and are nonrefundable. - CCAOnline and other course-specific refunds: refund and withdrawal rules vary by course type. There are no refunds for Dual Credit courses; partial refunds for paid online courses are handled according to the CCAOnline registration form and the vendor's stated policy. Specific partial-refund amounts and timelines are described on CCAOnline registration materials. - Monthly-service refunds: some monthly service fees (for example the monthly before-school supervision rate) are not refundable if unused; other item-specific refund rules (e.g., for paid extracurriculars or special programs) are applied as described at registration for those services. Accepted payment methods and payment instructions - Payments may be made online or at Banco General branches using the school payment booklet; confirmation of online payments should be sent to the school office to ensure correct posting. Payments may also be made to the school's stateside bank account; families should contact the school office for the specific stateside bank instructions and wiring details. Checks from U.S. banks may be deposited to the local account but typically require an additional processing fee (an example fee is USD 21.40 to cover local processing). - FACTS (school billing platform) is used for account management and billing statements; late fees are applied automatically through the billing platform when payments are late. - Hot lunch payments are handled directly by the lunch vendor and require credit-card payment on the vendor site. Some transcript or document fees may require payment by credit or debit card. What the annual tuition covers - The published tuition figures include core textbooks, the yearbook, standardized testing in elementary grades, and required online class access for high-school graduation where applicable. Additional items such as tickets or food for special events, optional extracurricular activities, special course fees (AP, dual-credit, or vendor online course fees beyond the baseline), field trips, lunch, and some activity-specific costs are billed separately. Key enforcement and account conditions - Students may not begin the school year if outstanding balances from prior years remain unpaid. The first monthly payment and annual technology fee must be paid by the start-of-year deadline (examples show these due no later than August 1 in published materials). Families with outstanding balances are restricted from receiving report cards, transcripts, and access to certain services until the account is cleared. Subscriptions to the 10-month plan and late fees are enforced per the published billing schedule. | Fee details Application Fee - Non‑refundable application fee: USD 110 per student. Payments for the application are accepted online by credit card through the school's RenWeb application when the application is completed. Enrollment Fee - Annual enrollment fee charged per student to guarantee a spot for the following year. - Early Bird Enrollment Fee (returning students, paid within the two‑month early window): USD 700. - Regular Enrollment Fee (new students, or if paid outside the Early Bird window): USD 800. - The enrollment fee is due in full at the time of admission for new students, is not prorated regardless of enrollment date, and is non‑refundable. Annual Tuition — fees by year group (amounts shown are per academic year) - Early Childhood Department — Half Day (8:00 am – 11:30 am): USD 4,000 per year. - Early Childhood Department — Full Day (8:00 am – 3:00 pm): USD 5,000 per year. - Kindergarten (8:00 am – 3:00 pm): USD 6,500 per year. - Grades 1–4 (8:00 am – 3:00 pm): USD 7,500 per year. - Grades 5–8 (8:00 am – 3:00 pm): USD 8,000 per year. - Grades 9–12 (8:00 am – 3:00 pm): USD 8,500 per year. Equivalent per‑term amounts (annual ÷ 3, shown for budgeting convenience if fees were split into three equal instalments) - Early Childhood — Half Day: USD 1,333.33 per term (USD 4,000 ÷ 3). - Early Childhood — Full Day: USD 1,666.67 per term (USD 5,000 ÷ 3). - Kindergarten: USD 2,166.67 per term (USD 6,500 ÷ 3). - Grades 1–4: USD 2,500.00 per term (USD 7,500 ÷ 3). - Grades 5–8: USD 2,666.67 per term (USD 8,000 ÷ 3). - Grades 9–12: USD 2,833.33 per term (USD 8,500 ÷ 3). - Note: Tuition is published as annual amounts; the per‑term figures above are straight equal instalment equivalents for budgeting. Other mandatory or one‑time charges - Technology Fee (annual): USD 100 for PK3–Kinder; USD 250 for Grade 1 and up. - Capital Donation (one‑time, at entry): minimum USD 4,000 (requested as a philanthropic contribution to support school resources and development). Boarding - The school does not list a boarding/residential programme or boarding fees; programs and published fees are for day enrolment. Other possible costs (examples families commonly budget for) - Additional costs that may apply in practice (not listed as fixed annual charges in the published fee breakdown) include: after‑school program fees, field trip/excursion charges, school supplies, learning‑support or specialist service fees, and optional activity or club fees. The published fee schedule explicitly lists the application fee, enrollment fee, tuition, technology fee, and capital donation. Refund information - The application fee (USD 110) is non‑refundable. - The enrollment fee (USD 700 early bird / USD 800 regular) is non‑refundable. - No separate published refund schedule for tuition instalments or other fees is provided in the fee breakdown; application and enrollment fees are explicitly stated as non‑refundable. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition and other recurring charges are published as annual amounts; the enrollment fee is charged annually to secure a spot and is due in full at admission for new students and is not prorated. - The school uses RenWeb (a web‑based application) for admissions and online payments for the application; the application payment is accepted online by credit card at submission. Specific term dates, installment schedules, and the school's internal billing calendar are not provided alongside the published annual fee figures. Fee payment options - Application payments: accepted online by credit card through the RenWeb application. - The published materials note integration with RenWeb and Odoo for student information and administrative systems; additional accepted payment methods for enrollment, tuition, and recurring charges (for example, bank transfer, in‑person card payment, or local currency options) are not detailed in the published fee summary. Summary for parents - Required up‑front, non‑refundable charges: Application Fee USD 110; Enrollment Fee USD 700 (early bird returning) or USD 800 (regular/new). - Annual tuition ranges by age/grade from USD 4,000 (Early Childhood half day) to USD 8,500 (Grades 9–12). - Annual technology fee and a one‑time capital donation minimum are additional expected costs. (Key published fee items and exact amounts are cited above.) |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement Uniforms are required for all students; the full uniform can be purchased at Galapagos Xpress in the El Dorado Mall. | Uniform requirement — |
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Food options
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Food options There is no lunch program; students bring packed lunches to school. | Food options — |
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House system
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House system — | House system — |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership Crossroads Christian Academy is a ministry of Crossroads Bible Church. Founded in 1997, it serves K4 through 12th grade as a US college/university preparatory school. It is fully authorized by MEDUCA and accredited by the Middle States Association (MSA) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI); it is a member of Tri-Association and AASSA and follows the US academic calendar (August through June) with a dual diploma – United States and the local Panamanian certificate. | Governance and ownership The Inclusive Foundation was established in 2014 as a not-for-profit organization in Panama with tax-deductible status (DGI Resolution No. 201-0457). It is governed by a Board of Directors and provides professional development grants to faculty, as well as financial aid and innovation grants to students. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details Pre-K through 12th grade curricula meet Panamanian and U.S. standards and include a dual diploma program recognized in both countries. The school provides an English-language, Christian education with Spanish taught as a language; classes are small, averaging 13 students. The school is accredited by the Middle States Association (MSA) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and is authorized by MEDUCA. Advanced coursework includes dual-credit and AP options, with SAT/ACT testing available for 9–12 and frequent focus on college readiness. A North American High School diploma requires 25 credits and 80 hours of community service, with a local Panamanian diploma option; MAP assessments guide K5–9 and PSAT/SAT pathways exist for college preparation. 92% of graduates move on to post-secondary institutions. | Curriculum details The Kindergarten program uses the Creative Curriculum and centers the child in the learning process. English Language Arts is taught through a Reading Workshop approach with daily reading and writing, including phonics, decoding, and comprehension work. Math focuses on patterns, numbers, geometry, sorting, and problem solving through hands-on activities. The program includes Spanish immersion, Music, Physical Education, Art, and Technology to provide a well-rounded start to learning. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio Classes average 13 students per class. All teachers are fluent English speakers, with foreign language instructors as exceptions. | Student teacher ratio Group size is 14 students in Kindergarten; TRAIL describes low student-teacher ratios across the school. |
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Exam results
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Exam results Students are evaluated with MAP (K5–9) and PSAT/PSAT-style assessments; high school students take PSAT 8/9 and may take SAT, ACT, and AP exams. Final exams or projects are administered in all core subjects; high school finals count as 20% of the semester grade. Grades in grades 9–12 require passing with 60% or higher to earn credit; advanced courses are graded on a 4.5 GPA scale to reflect increased content. | Exam results — |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression 92% of CCA graduates immediately move on to post-secondary institutions in Panama and around the world. The school supports college readiness through a North American diploma, local Panamanian diploma options, and access to SAT/ACT/AP testing. | Higher education progression — |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented Advanced coursework is available, including dual-credit and AP courses to challenge students. Students in grades 9–12 may take SAT, ACT, and AP exams with guidance from the college counselor. Advanced courses use a 4.5 GPA scale to reflect higher content and workload. | Gifted and talented — |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning The school provides Counseling Services to guide academic, behavioral, vocational, and social-emotional needs from preschool through high school. The Counseling Team offers Individual Counseling, Group Counseling, and College Counseling. Prevention Programs are conducted for topics such as Sexual Abuse and Harassment, Alcohol and Drugs, and Bullying. Parent Education Sessions are provided, and Learning Support is available through the Resource Specialist. Counseling aims to help students develop healthy relationships, maintain mental health, and apply biblical principles in their lives. | Social & emotional learning TRAIL is dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive community. TRAIL fosters intercultural understanding and respect to develop caring individuals who contribute to just societies. TRAIL describes its mission as developing inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring people who connect with others. The school views community and inclusion as foundational to learning and personal growth. TRAIL emphasizes leadership and service, with a Service & Action requirement for grades 9-10 and a CAS requirement for grades 11-12, reinforcing personal development through real-world engagement. The After-School Program & Clubs and the School's community initiatives support social development and self-esteem among students and community members. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) The school has a Special Educational Needs policy. The Admissions Committee evaluates whether it can meet a student's needs and may request evaluations. The school abides by regulations regarding special education and strives to offer quality education that respects diverse learning styles. Parents requesting admission with special needs must provide diagnostic information; the school may arrange a shadow or special needs assistant if needed, with parental remuneration. Students with SEN are evaluated at intervals, and a Resource Specialist supports progress with the family. | Special educational needs (SEN) TRAIL has an Inclusive Learning Center for Learning Support. The school describes itself as an Inclusive Foundation School. The Inclusive Learning Center is listed under the Elementary School page as a resource for Learning Support. The Inclusive Foundation supports faculty development and student aid to foster inclusive education. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language The school teaches in English and provides an English-language education for Pre-K through 12th grade. All students accepted in 1st grade through 12th grade must be able to speak and write in English at their academic level. | English as an additional language — |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing The school supports mental wellbeing through Counseling Services that address social-emotional needs and mental health. The Counseling Department provides Individual Counseling, Group Counseling, and Parent Education Sessions, as well as Prevention Programs on topics such as sexual abuse/harassment, drugs, and bullying. Counseling aims to help students develop healthy relationships, apply Biblical principles, and maintain adequate mental health. | Mental wellbeing — |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding The school has a Child Protection Plan and policy. The plan includes training from ChildSafeguarding.com, and all adults in the school community have a role in Child Protection. The reporting of suspicions is made to the school Counselor for follow up with the CCA Response Team, and legal advisement may be sought. CCA is committed to protecting the physical and mental health of each child and will report abuse to appropriate authorities when necessary. | Safeguarding Maintaining Health & Safety 2020-21 is listed under the Academics section. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview The school shares facilities with Crossroads Bible Church. All classrooms are well-equipped and air-conditioned. The campus includes a 25-station computer lab, an art room, a music room, a guidance office, an outdoor cafeteria, a playground, a covered gym, a science lab, and an elementary library. | Facilities overview Trail School is located in Panama Pacifico, at 841 Andrews Blvd., Panama Pacifico, Panama. The campus is an open campus equipped with a gym and an athletics track. It houses an Inclusive Learning Center for Learning Support as part of its academic program. The school offers 12 clubs and activities and provides Club House, an after-school drop-in program from 3:00 to 5:30 pm. Trail is accredited by MEDUCA Panama. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities The athletics program includes basketball, soccer, and volleyball for middle- and high-school students, with programs for younger children. Practices and games follow seasonal schedules, with basketball and volleyball generally in fall and soccer in spring. The school is a member of ADECOP, the Association of American Schools in Central America (AASCA), and the Liga de Baloncesto Kiwanis (LBK). | Sports facilities The campus includes a gym and an athletics track. Physical Education classes and a wide range of athletic programs and teams are part of TRAIL's student life. The Athletic Department emphasizes goal-setting, improvement, and character development. Participation in interscholastic athletics promotes teamwork and leadership. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities Classrooms are air-conditioned. The school has a 25-station computer lab, a science lab, an art room, and a music room. An outdoor cafeteria, a playground, a covered gym, and an elementary library are also on site. | Academic facilities The school provides Early Childhood Education, Kindergarten, Elementary School, Middle School, and High School. Inclusive Learning Center for Learning Support is part of the Elementary School. The school is accredited by MEDUCA Panama. The school is an inclusive foundation school. The Panama Pacifico campus is located at 841 Andrews Blvd, Panama Pacifico, Panama. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities Athletics include basketball, soccer, and volleyball for middle- and high-school students, with programs for younger children. Fine arts are offered with elementary and secondary music and art programs, after-school clubs (Introduction to Music, Creative Card-Making, Drama), and a chapel band that practices weekly. High school students complete twenty community service hours per year through Community Outreach Opportunities. A Student Council exists to organize events, promote sports teams, and foster Christ-centered school spirit. | Extra curricular facilities There are 12 clubs and activities offered to the Panama Pacifico community. Club House is a drop-in after-school program available from 3 pm to 5:30 pm daily. Activities include Art; Chess - Beginner; Dance - Ballet; Guitar - Group; Guitar - Private; Gymnastics; Karate; Mommy & Me; Taekwondo; Triathlon. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History Crossroads Christian Academy (CCA) was founded in 1997 by a small group from Crossroads Bible Church and began with 29 students in Kindergarten through eighth grade. After Panama regained sovereignty of the canal in 1999, CBC leaders decided to keep the school open to expand community outreach and provide families with a Christian education option. The school now serves Pre-K through 12th grade with over 167 students and an average class size of about 13, representing more than 22 nationalities. CCA is an English-speaking school (not bilingual) and is fully accredited by the Middle States Association (MSA) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), fully authorized by MEDUCA, and participates in Tri-Association and AASSA; it follows a U.S. academic calendar and offers a dual diploma (U.S. and Panamanian). The campus shares facilities with Crossroads Bible Church. | History TRAIL School, The Renaissance Academy of International Learning, opened its doors to reinvent international education for a fast-changing world. The rebirth of education inspires children to inquire and discover, and TRAIL seeks to build a new renaissance together with the Panama Pacifico community so that students become ethical, knowledgeable citizens. The Panama Pacifico campus is located at 841 Andrews Blvd., Panama Pacifico, Panama. TRAIL is an inclusive foundation school and is accredited by MEDUCA Panama. |
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Community
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Community Life at CCA emphasizes faith-based learning through Bible classes and chapel programs with small-group opportunities, praise and worship, testimonies, and solid Biblical teaching. All grade levels participate in community outreach and service projects, including mission trips and disaster relief collections, and athletes and student leaders are encouraged to demonstrate Christ-like leadership. The school offers Athletics, Fine Arts, Student Council, and Community Service as core programs that build community and culture. | Community TRAIL is dedicated to becoming a vibrant community hub where students, families, and local residents can come together to connect, learn and grow. It offers 12 clubs and activities for the Panama Pacifico community. The campus is equipped with a gym and an athletics track. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association — | Parent teacher association — |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual Academic Preparation emphasizes life-long learning, critical thinking, and strong language skills. Students demonstrate English language mastery and pursue Spanish competency while developing math and science proficiency. Cultural understanding and arts expression are fostered, and digital responsibility is taught. | Academic & intellectual TRAIL uses a child-centered and inquiry-based education approach that fosters curiosity and leadership. TRAIL prepares learners for the jobs of the future by focusing on innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship inside and beyond the classroom. The Inclusive Foundation provides professional development grants to faculty and supports financial aid and innovation grants to students. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative CCA offers music and fine arts as part of the curriculum. Elementary students have music and fine art classes, while secondary students may choose from a range of art- and music-based courses. After-school clubs include Introduction to Music, Creative Card-Making, and Drama, and the chapel band practices weekly and leads chapel worship. A Christmas program by elementary students and additional courses such as Painting, Music Theory, and Intro to Guitar accompany the program. | Arts & creative Music and visual arts are taught, with a Music Teacher and an Art Teacher on the staff. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language English language mastery is emphasized and students work toward Spanish competency. Students develop cultural understanding by examining how different cultures shape the past, affect the present, and influence the future. The program also includes exposure to an international environment and biblical worldview. | Cultural & language English is taught in the High School and Spanish language instruction is offered as part of the curriculum. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies Students have access to sports, arts, and student clubs that support social life and hobbies. The Athletics program offers basketball, soccer, and volleyball for middle and high school, with seasons in fall and spring. Fine Arts clubs and the chapel band provide additional outlets for creative participation. Student Council engages students in planning events and promoting school spirit. | Social & hobbies TRAIL offers after-school programs and clubs, including Chess for beginners, with a total of 12 clubs and activities available to the Panama Pacifico community. The campus is equipped with a gym and an athletics track. |
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Community & service
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Community & service High school students complete twenty community service hours per year toward a minimum of 80 hours for the Panamanian diploma. Service occurs through Community Outreach Opportunities (COOPs), which may take place on Wednesdays, after school, or weekends. Transportation and supplies are provided or funded through the school community; an August outreach assembly introduces the program. | Community & service TRAIL is committed to leadership training, service learning, and community service. There is a Service & Action requirement for grades 9 and 10, and a CAS (Creativity, Action and Service) requirement for grades 11 and 12, with students engaging in local and global community service. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional Leadership is developed through Student Council, a student-led organization with defined roles (President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary) and grade representatives elected for an academic year. Students gain leadership and professional skills through service opportunities and school activities. The Expected Student Outcomes include Leadership Skills, Organizational Skills, and decision-making within a biblical worldview. | Leadership & professional Leadership development is embedded in TRAIL's approach; the mission notes that students will become tomorrow's leaders. The founder is Stephanie Fleming, and an Academic Director leads the academic program; the staff includes roles such as Head of Film & Media and various subject teachers. The Inclusive Foundation provides professional development grants to faculty as well as financial aid and innovation grants to students. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing Life at CCA centers on spiritual development through Bible classes and weekly chapel programs. The school promotes mission trips and disaster-relief collections to encourage service beyond the classroom. Athletes and student leaders are expected to model Christ-like leadership and conduct. | Lifestyle & wellbeing The school is MEDUCA-accredited. The Panama Pacifico campus includes a gym and an athletics track, and an Athletics Director leads sports programs. A School Psychologist is on staff. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision The school teaches in English for Pre-K through 12th grade. | Language provision English and Spanish are the languages taught at TRAIL School. English Language Arts is a core subject, and Spanish is taught as a language course. In Grade 1 and Grade 2, the curricula include English Language Arts and Spanish instruction, with emphasis on conversation and literacy in Spanish. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching The school teaches English and Spanish. English Language Arts is offered, and Spanish is taught as a language course. |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations ACSI; MSA-CESS; Meduca (Panama Ministry of Education); Association with AASSA; Mission Next partnership | Accreditations MEDUCA Panama |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions 1. The online application can be started by clicking INQUIRE or APPLY on the Admissions page. 2. Meet admissions criteria. All applicants' parents/guardians must agree to have their child taught in the context of CCA's statement of faith. Space and staff limitations mean students with special educational needs are generally not accepted. All students accepted in 1st grade through 12th grade must be able to speak and write in English at their academic level. 3. Provide required application documents. These include the application form, the $100 application fee, birth certificate, and copies of IDs for parents, completed Director form from the current school, two teacher recommendations, a doctor health form, up-to-date immunization records, and school records (transcripts). International applicants must provide original records with an apostille where applicable; Panamanian local records require the Registro Académico Acumulativo with apostille as needed. 4. Grade-specific requirements. K3 applicants must be 3 years old by August 1 and potty trained. K4 applicants must be 4 by August 1, be potty trained, and able to eat independently; all Pre-K applicants are evaluated for readiness. K5 through 10th Grade applicants must be proficient in English and must pass an academic examination and interview; transfers from Panamanian schools may have additional considerations (e.g., not transferring in January, must maintain a 4.0 average, and must pass examination and interview). 11th Grade applicants are highly selective and require very strong prior records, references, and English ability; 12th Grade applicants are rarely accepted, especially if transferring from systems other than the US. 5. Apply online and plan next steps. Use the online application link to complete the process; schedule a visit if desired and contact the Admissions Coordinator for questions. | Admissions 1. Early Childhood Application Process: The application is submitted online via RenWeb. Create an account and apply online through RenWeb, the admissions database. Schedule a parent interview, approximately 45 minutes in length, with the head of admissions; the child may greet the interviewer but is not required to participate in the meeting. Submit a Confidential School Report if PK3 or PK4 applicants are currently enrolled in a fully separated preschool program; the report is issued by the current school and sent directly to TRAIL, with Transcript Release Form and Form for PK3 & PK4 Applicants available on the page. The applicant family is responsible for confirming the application is complete, and the Admissions Office reviews only complete applications. 2. Kindergarten Application Process: Rolling applications are accepted based on availability. The application for each academic year will be available in December. Submit an Online Application by creating an account and applying through RenWeb. A bypass code may be provided by the Admissions office if space allows, enabling submission of the application. Schedule an Individual Child Assessment: Small group play sessions are used for evaluation; this year assessments are conducted individually via Google Meet on Mondays and Thursdays. Schedule a Parent Virtual Interview: After submitting the application, arrange a virtual interview via Google Meet on Mondays or Fridays afternoons. Submit Confidential Private School Report if the child has attended a private day care in Panama; if the child is not currently enrolled in a preschool, contact the Admissions office to discuss alternatives. The report must be sent directly from the current school to TRAIL and the form is downloadable from the page. 3. Elementary School Application Process: Rolling applications are accepted based on availability. The December intake window applies to each academic year. Submit Online Application: Create an account and apply through RenWeb; for 2022-23 grades, contact the school to confirm availability; if space exists, the Admissions office will provide a bypass code to submit the application. Schedule a Family Conversation and Student Interview: Every applicant is required to participate in a family conversation and a student interview with the High School Admissions Director; this is an opportunity to learn about TRAIL's curriculum and programs and for questions to be asked. If applying to Torchlight with the Inclusive Learning Center (ILC), schedule an assessment with an ILC faculty member. Submit Official Transcript and Confidential Teacher Recommendations: Grade 1 applicants must submit a confidential school report; grades 2–5 applicants must have official transcripts from the past two years and a confidential Teacher Recommendation Form completed by the current school; translations are required if documents are not in English. 4. Middle School Application Process: Rolling applications are accepted based on availability. The December intake window applies to each academic year. Submit Online Application: Create an account and apply through RenWeb; contact the school to confirm availability in the grade entered. Schedule a Family Conversation and Student Interview: An interview and informal family conversation with the Middle School Admissions Director are required to learn about TRAIL's curriculum and programs; an assessment with the Inclusive Learning Center (ILC) may be scheduled if Torchlight or ILC services are being used. Submit Official Transcript and Confidential Teacher Recommendations: The transcript release form and teacher recommendation forms should be sent to the current school; if not in English, translations are required. Current fifth graders applying to sixth grade must submit two teacher recommendations (one from the current year and one from the previous year); seventh and eighth graders require two different teacher recommendations (which can be from the same school). 5. High School Application Process: Rolling applications are accepted based on availability. New applications for each academic year become available in December. Submit Online Application: Create an account and apply through RenWeb; for grades 9–12, contact the school to confirm grade availability; if space exists, a bypass code will be provided to submit the application. Schedule a Family Conversation and Student Interview: All high school applicants participate in a family conversation and a student interview with the High School Admissions Director to learn about TRAIL's programs and expectations. If applying to Torchlight or ILC services, an assessment with an ILC faculty member will be scheduled. Submit Official Transcript and Confidential Teacher Recommendations: The transcript release form and teacher recommendation forms should come from the student's current school; the English and Math teachers should complete the recommendation forms, and they should be submitted after December 1 to ensure an accurate assessment. If documents are not in English, translations must accompany them. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships Financial Assistance: CCA offers limited financial assistance to families who demonstrate need. Financial assistance is awarded based on an evaluation of each family's situation, using both objective and subjective factors (including years associated with CCA, parental and student involvement, academic performance and character, and community considerations). FAST is used to collect, validate, and provide a specific recommendation for financial assistance, and the family is responsible for paying the FAST application fee of $60. Applications are due no later than February 28th of each year for the upcoming school year, which begins in August. Financial aid, when granted, is awarded for one year at a time and families must re-apply each year to demonstrate continuing need, with the student maintaining a GPA of 2.5 or above. Financial assistance is available for students in all grades (K3–Grade 12). | Scholarships — |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist — | Waitlist — |
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