Mexico, Cancun
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A Values Program called The 6 Pillars of Character runs from Kindergarten through high school, with the value changing every two months and activities such as storytelling, songs, theatrical representations, games, and special assignments. Its objective is to create a harmonious school environment, prevent antisocial behaviors, and encourage positive attitudes, responsible decision making, and autonomy. Activities connected to each value include beach cleanups and friendly sport activities with students from other schools. A psychologist department provides prevention and intervention techniques for behavior, using an interdisciplinary approach with teachers, coordinators, parents and external therapists; it offers academic, personal and career guidance, crisis support and counseling. The school champions diversity, equity and inclusion, with nondiscrimination in admissions and educational programs and a commitment to equal opportunity.
English is the major language of instruction: English literature, science, social studies, math, and some electives and extracurricular activities are taught in English. The school provides a bilingual, bicultural education with bilingual instruction across grades. Daily class time is conducted in English or Spanish, reflecting a bilingual delivery model. The primary curriculum lists English–Spanish bilingual pathways (Transitorio English and English–Español) across grade levels. High school offers English-language coursework including AP English Language and AP English Literature as part of the program.
The Health program provides medical attention during the school day for emergencies and illnesses; for kinder and primary students, parents are advised if further attention is needed and the doctor does not administer medication from home. A psychologist is available for Kinder/Lower School and another for Middle/High School, supporting prevention and intervention with an interdisciplinary approach between teachers, coordinators, parents and external therapists. Prevention and intervention programs include the Values program, Educational Orientation, Positive Discipline, and Red Ribbon Week. The department provides personal guidance, career guidance, crisis support and counseling, and acts as mediator in solving problems between parents, students and staff. An interdisciplinary collaboration among teachers, coordinators, parents and external therapists supports students' social, academic, and emotional development.
The International American School of Cancun is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and safety of all students. All staff undergo rigorous vetting, including reference verification and background checks, before employment. Teachers and staff receive ongoing training in child protection and safeguarding practices. The school maintains clear communication with local government authorities and fulfills mandated reporting requirements when necessary. Parents are offered regular workshops and resources to strengthen safeguarding awareness; there is 24-hour security and limited access points and entrance protocols during the school day. Contact: primary@ciac.edu.mx or highschool@ciac.edu.mx; Phone: (998) 882-2269.
The International American School of Cancun offers an American-style, bilingual, bicultural university-preparatory education for students from preschool through high school. The school operates as a private, non-profit, non-sectarian, co-educational institution with United States affiliation through Cognia SACS/AdvancED and SAIS accreditation, and it is additionally accredited by Mexico's SEP and UNAM. All classes are taught in English, with dedicated Spanish and Mexican Studies programs; 1st–6th Grades offer Spanish, English, and Technology, and the school supports a transitional English–Spanish pathway. Students graduate with the U.S. High School diploma, and the Class of 2024 saw 91% also earn the Mexican Bachillerato. The campus has two sites: Kinder-Primary and Middle-High, with extensive facilities including classrooms, libraries, laboratories, an auditorium, a cafeteria, and sports fields; each campus has a psychologist. Extracurriculars include Model United Nations, National Honor Society, Student Council, PAS, and CES Spirit; AP courses are offered in Spanish Literature and English Literature. Opportunities.