Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Quetzaltenango

Quetzaltenango, also known as Xela, is the second-largest city in Guatemala and offers a vibrant expat community with a handful of international and bilingual schooling options for expat children. While the city isn't as large as some global metropolises, it does provide quality education through several reputable institutions. Among the most popular are the Inter-American School and Colegio Bilingue La Patria, which cater to the diverse educational needs of international families. Here's a list of some of the international and bilingual schools within a short drive from Quetzaltenango.

Inter-American School (Colegio Interamericano)

Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): 19 Avenida 4-35, Zone 3, Quetzaltenango
Website: www.interamschool.com

The Inter-American School is a private, coeducational day school that offers an American-style education. It serves both the international community and local families seeking a bilingual education for their children. The school follows a U.S. curriculum and offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses for older students. Facilities include science labs, a library, and sports areas. Extracurricular activities range from music and arts to robotics and Model United Nations.

Colegio Bilingue La Patria

Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): 4a Calle 23-03, Zone 3, Quetzaltenango

Colegio Bilingue La Patria is known for its strong bilingual program, offering instruction in both Spanish and English. The school focuses on creating a multicultural environment where students can thrive academically and socially. It provides a balanced curriculum that includes the Guatemalan Ministry of Education requirements as well as international standards. The school also emphasizes the importance of technology in education, integrating it into their teaching methods.

Deutsche Schule Xela (German School Quetzaltenango)

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): 9a Calle 7-77, Zone 1, Quetzaltenango

The Deutsche Schule Xela offers a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in German language and culture. While primarily teaching in German, the school also provides Spanish and English language instruction. The curriculum aligns with German educational standards, preparing students for the German Abitur as well as providing a strong foundation in other subjects. The school boasts a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and cultural exchanges.

Shalom Christian Academy

Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): 0 Avenida 2-35, Zone 9, Quetzaltenango

Shalom Christian Academy is a bilingual school that offers an education based on Christian principles. The school's curriculum is designed to foster academic excellence and spiritual growth within a bilingual environment. Students are taught in both English and Spanish, and the school provides a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and community service projects.

Waldorf School Quetzaltenango

Grades: Preschool through Grade 6
Location(s): Aldea Las Rosas, Quetzaltenango

The Waldorf School in Quetzaltenango is part of the global network of Waldorf schools that emphasize holistic education. The curriculum is based on the educational philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, which integrates academic, artistic, and practical disciplines. The school offers a nurturing environment with a focus on creativity, critical thinking, and social responsibility. While the school primarily teaches in Spanish, it incorporates English language learning as part of its curriculum.